While working for the Graduate School of Conservation of the Tokyo University of Arts, Satoshi Yabuuchi, a sculptor from Sakai in Osaka, designed Nara Prefecture's regional mascot Sentokun. He is also the director of Heisei Gikakudan dance troupe, and an active promoter of the preservation of Japanese traditional culture.

In a retrospective of Yabuuchi's works, this show presents pieces from his 30-year career, focusing on the theme of "Japan's heart."; May 24-July 7.

Sakai City Museum; (072) 228-7143; 2 Mozusekiun-cho, Sakai-ku, Sakai, Osaka; Mozu Station, Hanwa Line. 9:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. ¥600. Closed Mon. www.city.sakai.lg.jp/kanko/bunka/event/yabuuchi/yabuuti_exhibition_info.html