Uniqlo Thailand said on Thursday it is holding a Studio Ghibli exhibition in the capital Bangkok and selling a commemorative T-shirt collection and tote bags, in the first collaboration with Japan's renowned animation studio.
The exhibition at the CentralWorld shopping mall features Totoro and the Cat Bus from the classic anime movie My Neighbor Totoro, as well as calligraphy by studio producer Toshio Suzuki. The fast-moving feline character is large enough for visitors to get inside.
Also on display are photos of the Ghibli Museum in western Tokyo by Thai photographer Kanyada Prathan, whose work is being serialised in a monthly booklet published by the studio.
Suzuki, who appeared at a news conference remotely, said he has visited Thailand repeatedly though his interaction with Kanyada and wanted to push forward the project. He also expressed his hope to start holding various events in Southeast Asia.
The commemorative T-shirts come in a total of 12 designs -- six for children and six for adults -- all available only in Thailand. Specially designed T-shirts featuring Kanyada's photos and drawings can also be ordered at the exhibition.
Suzuki said his favourite is one of a Totoro drawing by Kanyada that was inspired during her visit to the museum.
Yoshitake Wakakuwa, CEO of Uniqlo Thailand, said he hopes the fashion brand's products will serve as a "bridge that culturally connects Thailand and Japan."
The exhibition will run from Friday through March 27.
