My mother in law (japanese) owns a Kimono made by Lady Matsuoka Tama San (the elderly lady on the video herself) in this Yanagi Shibori style , and this is one her most precious asset . It is actually kept at the bank in a safe , and worn only a few times every year on very special occasion . The financial value is unimportant , it is kept there to preserve it in the most optimum condition as some banks offer a kimono service with expert checking regularly on the items kept in the safe with a controlled level of humidity and dryness , clean air , and anti insect techniques that do not damage the textile , as insect and heat are the two worst enemies of kimonos , especially silk ones . I personally find it very ironic that Kimono made of silk, so literally by insects (caterpillars) , are also eaten by insects . Since the caterpillars are boild alive , i personally think it is just karma that other insects try to avenge their sacrificed brothers and sisters . My mother in law, thinks i am mental for thinking this way , and yet she is vegan, go figure !
Wow! Thank you for this. I love the time, creativity, and serious craftsmanship that goes into this work. I am always in awe of the quality of everything that comes from Japan. I surely have a new appreciation for this art!
THIS TECHNIQUE IS SO AMAZING! I tried it out and it's not like any of the other dying techniques, the pattern is actually so beautiful..I hope this technique never dies out :)
I cherish textile art trips with Yoshika Wada for World Shibori textiles 1979 and to reference this heritage for my MA vocation education research. Joy connecting with my Japanese penpal Satako and her children which continues today with stamps on letters. ArtTextiles 2005 included World Quilt Conference, World Expo, and Benesse House stay Naoshima Museum visits. Arigato!
Beautiful video, and in English so I can understand what was going on - Thank you! What a lovely art. This has enriched my dye knowledge, and increased my appreciation of fine Japanese dyeing. -- Bjo (Dyelady)
