Introducing Ray Ray Chan, Camilla's custom Kokeshi for the 2009 Kokeshi Show at the JANM in LA. Over 100 contemporary artists contributed to this popular customs show.

Ray Ray Chan is a Helmetgirl, eating a watermelon. Perfect for the summer!

What is Kokeshi? Kokeshi originated in the north of Japan in a region called Tohoku, and often were the toys of the children of farmers or souvenirs for visitors to nearby hot springs. Handmade out of wood, they traditionally were characterized by a slim trunk for a body and a larger round head. It is believed Japanese woodworkers made kokeshi as a source of extra income. Faces were often a few simple lines of paint while the bodies were decorated with colorful floral patterns.