Washi dreams

Motif

The vibrant colours of this obi are shaped into an abstract display of small traditional motifs such as wves, flowers and gold sprinkles. The background is made of different colours juxtaposed as if they were teared off pieces of wahi paper applied on this obi.

This motif reminds me of the beautiful Japanese washi papers incorporating god leaves into their paper. Recently I loved learning about the production of washi as I discovered the common roots of some paper workshops tightly connected with the kimono painter workshops in Kyoto. Especially regarding the Yuzen washi which is born from the same Yuzen technique, used to decorate the kimono silk.

TEXTILE

The fabric is made of silk and golden lamé.

I dug out this photo form Hariko Paper introducing different types of paper including some with gold that I mentioned above. I also take this chance to tell anyone interested in learning more about the fabrication of washi that Emilie, the washi specialist behind Hariko Paper, offers visits to local makers in Kyoto. You can also find a wide selection of paper for sale in her online store.