In 2019 I realized a lifelong dream and relocated to Tokyo. Since coming here I’ve immersed myself in the practical study of traditional crafts, among them Japanese Washi paper, a paper cord decorations known as Mizuhiki, Furoshiki – Japanese traditional packaging and Ikebana Japanese flower arrangements, that is being taught at a local Buddhist temple.
My teachers are masters, who with little words initiate me into a long tradition and a greater way of looking at things.
Contact me for workshops and collaborations related to Japanese crafts and their inspirations.
Ikebana – Traditional Japanese flower arrangement
I have been studying and practicing Ikebana - Japanese flower arrangement art since 2019 at Ikenobo.
Ikebana began with Ikenobo over 550 years and Ikenobo is said to be the origin of ikebana.
Like a poem or painting made with flowers, Ikenobo’s ikebana expresses both the beauty of flowers and the beauty of longing in our own hearts.
In 2022 I was invited to participate at the Ikenobo annual exhibition at Mitsukoshi, Tokyo. My arrangement was shown among selected Ikebana artists from around Japan.
Washi - traditional Japanese paper
Washi paper is made with Kozo local fiber, processed by hand and made in a traditional manner. In Japan, washi is one of the most beloved crafts.
OZU Washi - a washi center in Tokyo established since 1653, invited me to relocate to Japan inorder to study Japanese crafts.
In my original Washi paper works, I combine eyelashes, dried flowers, and horse hair with the kozo fibers.
Furoshiki - traditional Japanese wrapping
Furoshiki is a square piece of cloth or fabric used for traditional wrapping. The word refers both to the craft and to the cloth itself, which usually has an elegant, decorative design print related to Japanese seasons and culture. What I love about Furoshiki is the fusion, that it is an art, a craft, a useful everyday object, its usefulness as a plastic substitute, and a piece of traditional Japanese history.
