The art of gift-giving in Japanese culture is deeply rooted in thoughtfulness and care, with an emphasis on the gesture rather than the gift itself. For centuries, furoshiki, traditional wrapping cloths, have been used to present gifts, symbolising respect and intention. These cloths, often vibrant and beautifully designed, carry rich meaning and are as much a part of the gift as the item inside.
The Australian Museum of Design has curated a special collection of furoshiki, featuring hand-drawn designs from Australian artists, many of which have been unseen for over 50 years. These exclusive designs bring together Australian artistry with the time-honoured Japanese tradition of furoshiki, making each cloth a unique piece of art.