Following the busy and somewhat hectic Christmas season, I welcomed the tranquil embrace of the dark winter months, using this time to turn inward and make space for the inception of a new collection of work, which feature small collage paintings. Beginning a new project can be daunting; contemplating where to start and which direction to take. I prefer to build upon previous work, allowing it to evolve gradually, seeking ways to refine and incorporate new shapes, design elements and textures.

My artistic expression predominantly centres around themes of nature and the elements. While deciding upon specific patterns, colours I sort through my photo archive of favourite images. With each perusal, I unearth new favourites and with the passage of time, I perceive things in a different light or find myself drawn to what I might have overlooked before. In photography, I aim to capture serenity, illumination, colour and textures — qualities I continually pursue in both life and art.

For my upcoming project, I have decided to create a collection of photo collages on Japanese paper, embellished with oils, pastels, beeswax and resin. From there, I seek inspiration for my next jewelry collection, using it as a platform to practice and express my love for colour. The mantra of observe, practice, and repeat has guided me for over 40 years.

 

This new collection of paintings, enamel and resin jewelry will be showcased at two upcoming exhibitions in Japan in April, with the first exhibition at Kobo Gallery centering around the theme of “Elemental”:

"Elemental suggests a focus on capturing and expressing the essence of nature, incorporating motifs, textures and colours that evoke the qualities of earth, water, air and fire. Earthy tones and textures represent the solidity and grounding, watery hues symbolize fluidity and adaptability. Airy compositions and light evoke freedom and movement, while fiery colours embody passion and transformation. Elemental invites us to explore the inherent power, beauty, and harmony of the natural world, inviting viewers to connect with the elemental forces that surround and sustain us.”

  

The first exhibition will take place at Kobo Gallery in Tokyo from April 1-6 followed by another at Tsumugu in Sendai from April 12-27. For more information, please refer to the links provided. As the days swiftly pass, I find myself engrossed in adding the final touches, photographing all the new pieces, and attending to the myriad details surrounding travel. I’m so excited to return to Japan, it’ll be my first visit since I returned to Canada in 2019. So much has transpired in the world since then; it feels like a lifetime ago. I am looking forward to this long-awaited trip, reconnecting with friends, and indulging in some sightseeing around Tokyo, with a brief excursion to Nara then north to beautiful Sendai where I lived for almost 20 years. The allure of Japan never fades; there is always more to discover and learn. I will be sure to share some of my experiences on Instagram and provide a follow-up blog post in May.

Until then, may the arrival of spring bring you joy and renewal!

Kobo Gallery: gallerykobo.jp

Tsumugu: tsumugu.com

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Japanese version below

Autumn's vibrant transition into winter not only paints the landscape with breathtaking red, orange, and gold hues but also ignites a creative spark within me. Following the heat of the summer, the cool temperatures bring a sense of rejuvenated energy and a compelling urge to craft something new. Yet, there are deeper elements igniting the creative energy. Autumn, with its leaves falling in transient beauty, encourages me to create jewelry pieces that capture the essence of the moment, mirroring the transient beauty of nature.

The season of harvest symbolizes abundance and fruition, and I strive to harvest inspiration from the world, transforming it into wearable expressions of beauty and meaning. The autumn equinox, with its perfect balance between day and night, serves as a muse, inspiring me to seek equilibrium in my jewelry designs. I carefully balance colors, textures, and elements to create pieces that resonate harmoniously with their wearers.

 

Much like autumn trees that weather the seasons with resilience and grace, I too embrace resiliency in my craft. Challenges become opportunities for growth, and setbacks serve as stepping stones to innovation.

Autumn carries with it a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, and I envision my work as touchstones for cherished memories and personal reflections.

 

During this time of year, I often find myself thinking about and missing Japan. It's a place that uniquely marks the seasons, especially with its stunning display of autumn colors due to the abundance of deciduous trees. As the weather cools, many people enjoy visiting hot springs. Some of the best hot springs are in Northern Japan, where I lived for 20 years. Places like Sakunami, Akiu, and Naruko Onsens, easily accessible by train or bus, offer relaxation, rejuvenation, and a chance to bask in the incredible autumn foliage.

 

In essence, my jewelry-making process mirrors the philosophy of autumn. Each piece carries a part of my journey and a touch of autumn's timeless beauty. I hope that as you wear my creations, they enhance and express your own sense of harmony, connecting you with the profound spirit of both the season and the artistry within.

As fall transitions into winter, my jewelry-making season becomes increasingly busy with events. Please visit my website for updates on new jewelry and upcoming events. The next event, the Circlecraft Show in Vancouver from November 8-12, promises to be a delightful experience. Come and find me at booth #S5. Additionally, from December 2-23, the Visual Space Gallery Winter Art and Craft Show will feature a beautifully curated selection of pottery, glass, fashion, graphic design, and jewelry. This month, I will be adding new work to Circlecraft Gallery, CCBC, and a new collection at the Vancouver Art Gallery shop. If you're in the downtown area, be sure to check them out.

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秋から冬へ：自然の移ろいがもたらすインスピレーション

 

NOV 05, 2023

 

秋がもたらす鮮やかな変化は、息をのむような赤やオレンジ、金色に風景を染めるだけでなく、私の創作意欲をも刺激します。ひりつくような夏の暑さが過ぎると、涼しい空気がまた活力を呼び起こし、新しいものを創り出す意欲が沸き上がってきます。この時期には、創作意欲に火を付ける深い何かがあります。木々が色づき葉を落とす繊細で儚い美しさ、その一瞬のエッセンスを捉えたいと私を奮い立たせるのです。

 

豊穣と結実を象徴する収穫の季節。そのなかで感性を研ぎ澄ませ、自然の美と移ろいを、身に着けられる形へと変化させます。昼夜の時間が等しくなる秋分は、デザインのバランスについても考える機会。身に着けるひとの感性に響くものを創るため、色や質感、素材の調和について、じっくりと考えを深めていくのです。

 

秋の木々が柔軟性と忍耐力、そして優美さをもって厳しい季節を乗り切るように、私もこれまでに育んできた柔軟性と忍耐力で創作にあたります。挑戦は成長の機会となり、失敗は新しいアイディアへの踏石となるのです。

 

秋は郷愁と哀愁をもたらし、これまでの大切な思い出や私的な考えの試金石となるような、そんな作品のイメージを心に描いていきます。

 

この時期、しばしば日本のことを考え懐かしんでいる自分に気付きます。際立った四季があり、特に秋には沢山の落葉樹が見事な紅葉を見せてくれる日本。冷え込みとともに、癒しを求め温泉を訪れる人々。素晴らしい温泉地が、私が20年暮らした東北にはあります。電車やバスで簡単にアクセスできる秋保や作並、鳴子温泉では、リラックスとリフレッシュ、そして見事に色付いた紅葉鑑賞という恩恵を受けることができます。

 

本質的に、私の創作プロセスは秋のエッセンスを反映しています。ひとつひとつの作品は私の人生の一部であり、そこに秋の不変的な美しさを少しだけ加えているのです。身に着けることで、作品に込めたアート性や季節感を感じ、あなたの感性に響くハーモニーが生まれることを願っています。

 

秋から冬にかけてイベントが増え、私のジュエリー創作も忙しくなってきます。ウェブサイトには新作ジュエリーと最新イベントを掲載しています。11月８日～12日にバンクーバーで開催されるサークルクラフトショーは、楽しいイベントになること間違いなし。私は#S5ブースにいます。そして、12月2日～23日は、ビジュアルスペースギャラリーでのウィンターアート＆クラフトショー。美しく厳選された陶器、グラス、ファッション、グラフィックデザイン、そしてジュエリーが並びます。今月、サークルクラフトギャラリーやCCBC（the craft council of British Colombia）に新しい作品を、バンクーバーアートギャラリーショップには新しいコレクションを加える予定です。近くにいらしたら、どうぞチェックしてみて下さいね。

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The transition from cherry blossom season to shinryoku season, known as "fresh green," marks a notable shift in Japan's natural beauty. Among the many regions in Japan renowned for their scenic landscapes, Tohoku stands out as a top destination, offering an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rejuvenating hot springs called onsens.

 

As May unfolds, the weather remains cool and refreshing, providing the perfect atmosphere for nature's vibrant display. Spring brings forth a colorful array of azaleas and wisteria vines, while the arrival of June unveils deep blue and purple hydrangeas. These stunning hues create a striking contrast against the brilliant greenery that blankets the surroundings, captivating visitors with its beauty.

During my time in Sendai, the capital city of Miyagi prefecture in the Tohoku region, I was fortunate to experience this natural splendor firsthand. I resided just steps away from the revered temple grounds of Zuiho-ji and Zuihoden, which serve as the mausoleum complex of Date Masamune. Every day, I immersed myself in the serene ambiance of these areas, relishing in the morning air and the soft glow of spring sunlight filtering through the trees. While each season possesses its unique allure, May and June hold a particular charm that is hard to resist. Additionally, the soothing sounds of the nearby Hirose River provided a melodic backdrop to my explorations. Adjacent to the river, there is a picturesque pathway enticing visitors to embark on leisurely bike rides, walks, or picnics.

 

Despite not being a prominent tourist destination, Sendai offers an exceptional experience for those seeking to delve into the hidden gems of Japan. Spending a couple of nights in this city unveils an array of captivating sights and remarkable culinary delights. During spring, the local cuisine comes alive with the flavors of sansai, edible wild plants, and takenoko, tender bamboo shoots. These are just a couple of specialties amongst the many culinary delights of Sendai. 

 

Among my most cherished memories during my time in Sendai was a day trip to Yamadera, a mountain temple located in Yamagata Prefecture. The temple grounds, perched high up on a steep mountainside, afforded breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. Following a rewarding hike, we indulged in a soba lunch which is one of Yamagata’s most beloved culinary treats. On our return train journey to Sendai, we made a stop at Sakunami onsen, specifically at the renowned Ichinobo hotel. Here, we immersed ourselves in the tranquil outdoor onsen, soothing our senses in the therapeutic hot spring waters while gazing upon the scenic mountain stream and the lush fresh greenery. This adventure is just one example of the numerous day trips available to visitors, promising an enchanting journey through the region's wonders.

The vivid foliage of shinryoku season acts as a balm for the soul after enduring a long, dark winter. I treasure the memories I made during my time in Japan and am now creating new ones here in the beautiful city of Vancouver. Currently, my workbench is filled with a plethora of jewelry pieces waiting to be adorned with layers of colors, inspired by the lushness of nature's spring rebirth.

 

新緑

JUN 10, 2023

 

桜から新緑へと変わる季節、木々の若葉が日本の美しい自然を一層際立たせます。美しい景観で知られる日本の中でも東北地方は人気の高いエリアで、ハイキングやスキー、疲労回復効果の高い温泉など、沢山のアウトドアを楽しむことができます。

 

5月が進むにつれて気候は爽やかになり、自然の生気が満ちる完璧な環境が整います。6月が来て紫陽花の青や紫を鮮やかにするその間、春のツツジと藤が彩り豊かに咲き誇ります。その見事な色合いは、周囲を覆う眩い緑との間で息をのむようなコントラストを生み出し、訪れる人の心を掴むのです。

 

東北地方、宮城県仙台市で暮らした期間、この素晴らしい自然を直接体験出来たことは本当に幸運でした。私の家は伊達政宗の霊廟 瑞鳳殿と伊達家ゆかりの瑞鳳寺のすぐそばにあり、

日々その静かな佇まいに浸りながら、朝の空気を味わい、木立を通してやわらかに伸びる春の光を楽しんでいました。季節毎にそれぞれの良さがありますが、5月6月には抗し難い独特の魅力があります。散策の折には、近くを流れる広瀬川のせせらぎが心地よい旋律を添えてくれ、絵のような川沿いの小道は、サイクリングや散歩、ピクニックへと訪れる人を惹き付けるのです。

 

華やかな観光地ではないものの、秘密の宝石のような場所を探し求める人々にとって、仙台は特別な体験を約束してくれる土地です。数日間の滞在で、心を捉える景観と美味しい料理の数々に出会うことができるのです。春には風味豊かな山菜が芽を出し、やわらかいタケノコとともに滋味あふれる郷土料理を味わえます。（これらは仙台名物のほんの一部に過ぎませんが。）

 

仙台から少し足を延ばした山形県 山寺への日帰り旅も、仙台在住の間の印象深い大事な思い出です。約1,000段の階段をのぼった先、急峻な山肌の高所に建つ寺院で待っていたのは、眼下に広がる谷合の、息をのむパノラマのような眺めでした。大満足のハイキングの後には、愛すべき山形名物、美味しい蕎麦ランチを楽しみました。

 

仙台への帰路には、途中下車をして名高い作並温泉“一の坊”へ。美しい山間のせせらぎや青々とした木々を眺めながら、長閑な露天風呂で心地よい癒しの湯に浸かり、疲れを癒すことができました。これは数ある日帰り旅のほんの一例ですが、きっとあなたを魅了することと思います。

 

新緑の季節、生き生きと伸びる若い枝葉は、長く暗い冬に耐えた後の癒しです。日本で紡いできた思い出の数々は私の宝物であり、この美しいバンクーバーでも新しい宝物が生まれています。そしていま、豊かな春の息吹にインスパイアされ、沢山のジュエリー達が美しく魅力的に創り出されるのを待っています。

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As winter comes to an end and spring begins, these first few months of the year can feel daunting. The festivities have passed, the weather is bleak, and it's back to the daily grind. However, this month can also be a time of renewal and rejuvenation, especially if we embrace our natural winter cycle.

The dark days of late February and March are perfect for recharging our energy and taking a step back to reflect. It's an opportunity to review the previous year, examine our past work, and think about how it can evolve and take on new forms. By following our natural inclination to hibernate, we prepare ourselves for the return of light and the start of a new creative cycle.

It's fascinating where ideas can come from during this time of year. Often, it's from doing the most mundane tasks such as cleaning and organizing our spaces. As we clear away the clutter from the busy months of the previous year, we make space for new ideas to emerge. Colours, sketches, and samples find their way to our worktables, and from there, we start to see new directions and possibilities.

This year, my collection of accumulated clutter has shown me the way forward. I've been inspired to incorporate more nature into my life and work, using the colours of spring, particularly shades of pink, to symbolize renewal and renewed hope. It feels like my cycle of chaos to order, creating a place for the birth of new work.

During these cold, dark months, I've been dreaming of pink, which I believe will be my spring/summer colour obsession.It's exciting to see where this will take me and how it will influence my creative work. I’ve been poring over photos of hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season in Japan and the last few years in Vancouver, they have provided lots of colour inspiration. 

Pink, in particular symbolizes the hopefulness and rebirth that spring brings. I’m very excited about the new resin and enamel collection which I will start adding to my website soon! These images will give you an idea of what’s to come!

Everyone has their own patterns and cycles during spring. Some people find it a time to reset and set new goals, while others use it to recharge and reflect. Whatever your approach, embrace it and see where it takes you. The dark days of spring may seem challenging, but they can also be a time of great creativity and renewal.

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ピンクが象徴する春、そして再生

MAR 26, 2023

 

クリスマスと新年の賑わいが過ぎると、またバンクーバーでは風が強い単調な日常が戻ってきます。冬から春へ向かう数か月は時に人を怖気づかせ、何から始めれば良いのかわからないことがあります。しかしながら、この期間は私たちが自然な冬のサイクルを受け入れることで、再生と復活の機会にもなります。

 

実際、２月下旬から３月にかけての暗い日々は、エネルギーを充電し自分自身と向き合うのに最適です。前の年を振り返って過去の作品と向き合い、どのように進化させ新しいデザインを生み出すことができるか、じっくりと考えます。冬籠りという自然現象に従うことで、再び訪れる春の光と新たな創作サイクルの始まりに備えるのです。

 

アイディアがひらめくこの時期は、魅力に満ちてもいます。掃除や整理整頓といった、ありふれた日常生活をおくる中から思いつくことも多く、忙しさに取り紛れて散らかしたままだったものを片付けるように、新しい発想が生まれる場所を作っていくのです。こうした作業の中から色彩やスケッチそして新たな発想があふれ出し、新しい方向性と可能性が見え始めます。

 

今年、そうやってこれまで集めてきた物達が、進む道を示してくれました。多くの自然の要素を生活や作品に取り入れてきたことで、春の色彩、特に微妙に色調の異なるピンクを使って、再生と新しい希望を象徴するようになったのです。それは混沌としたものを整えて、新しい作品が生まれる場所を創る、私自身のサイクルのように感じます。

 

寒くて暗い冬の数か月間、次の春夏コレクションには必ずピンクを使おうと思い描いてきました。この思いが私をどこに導いてくれるのか、どんなふうに想像力を掻き立ててくれるのか、考えるとワクワクします。日本やバンクーバーの桜の写真は、沢山の色彩のインスピレーションを与えてくれるのです。

 

ピンク、それは春がもたらす溢れる希望と再生の象徴。新しいコレクションをウェブサイトに加えるのが楽しみです！

 

ひとそれぞれ独自の春の過ごし方や向き合い方があります。ある人が充電と思案に費やす間、これまでをリセットして新しい目標を設定していく人もいるでしょう。何に取り組むとしても、それを受け入れ、行く先を見ていこうと思います。春まだ遠い暗い日々に難しさを感じることもあるかもしれませんが、そうした日々もまた素晴らしい創造と再生の時間になるのですから。

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This months blog focuses on the autumnal color of red. Read more to see how it's influenced by work. Continue reading

Japanese version below.

Last month, I wrote about the Japanese word gaman which means patience, and that blog serves as the perfect prelude for this month’s blog, on the creation of resin jewelry. Working with resin, regardless of what you are creating, requires a lot of patience. Some may not know what resin really is, or where it comes from; it is a naturally occurring material, formed in special resin cells of plants, usually produced when injury occurs. It has been used by humans for centuries, and more recently, man-made resins have also been produced. From perfumery to jewelry, resins play a big role in our craft.

My first experiences with working with resin

My first experiences with resin was as a painter, using beeswax, dammar resin, and pigments (encaustic painting) about 20 years ago. The textures and forms you could create with resin are almost endless, from translucent and opaque surfaces, to carved and layered to create texture and depth. When I began making wearable art, I extrapolated what I had learned as a painter with resin, and worked to create pieces that had a similar effect to encaustic paintings. It was in this extrapolation that I started experimenting with casting resin, and the painting process has influenced and continues to influence how I use colour and texture, a symbiotic relationship. 

Creating resin jewelry

There are many steps to creating resin earrings, pendants and brooches. First, I begin by making the bezels from bronze or silver, by soldering, forming, and cleaning them. After this is done, I prepare inclusions of gemstones and crystals to enhance the colour, and use images from my photo archive printed on fine washi (traditional Japanese paper) and gold or silver leaf. 

When the time comes to decide the colour of the resin is where I find most enjoyment. I peruse photos, gemstones, pearls, and other sources of inspiration to find a colour that I think captures the beauty of the jewelry. Over the years, I have noticed that a theme has emerged of decidedly deep blues of the sea and sky, teal greens, soft and silvery greys, and warm golds that I gravitate towards when choosing resin colours. 

To bring the piece of jewelry all together, I carefully place the bezels on a taped surface, and begin layering with silver or gold leaf, gems, washi, and, of course, the resin. Each piece is composed of three layers, and each layer requires curing time before the next can begin. After the pieces have cured completely (about three days), they are sanded by hand to a soft, matte finish. 

A practice in patience

There are a multitude of challenges that come with creating resin jewelry, that try my patience daily, and remind me of the themes of gaman I wrote about in my last blog. The best parts of the day are when there is a natural flow to the work, with no struggles or impatience. However, these moments would not be possible without the challenges, and I let the process guide and teach me—a student forevermore.  

Each piece of wearable art is carefully crafted from start to finish, or rather, from bezels to ear wires. You can see my new pieces featuring resin on my website, and more will be added soon, so keep an eye out! You can also subscribe to my newsletter to be informed of new jewelry launches and events. To see my newest work in person, visit me at the Summer Art and Craft Show, Tuesdays to Saturdays, until August 13th. I hope to see you there! 

レジン・ジュエリー：我慢の練習

JUL 31, 2022

 

レジン・ジュエリー：我慢の練習

 

先月のブログテーマである我慢は、完全に今回の投稿に向けたプロローグとなりました。何を創るかにかかわらず、レジン（樹脂）の加工には多くの忍耐を要します。元来、レジンは自然由来の素材で、樹脂細胞を持つ植物に傷をつけて採取するものです。暮らしの中で何百年も使用され、最近では人工樹脂まで作られるようになりました。香水からジュエリーまで、ハンドクラフトでは大きな役割を果たしているのです。

 

初めてのレジン加工

 

私が初めてレジンを使ったのは、およそ20年前、画家として蜜蝋とダマール樹脂で色付け（蝋画法）を行ったときでした。レジンで得られる効果、質感と形、表面の透明感や重ね塗りしたときの風合いや奥行きは、ほとんど無限にも感じます。ウェアラブル・アートを創り始めたとき、レジンを使うことでジュエリーにも同様の効果が得られるのではないかと思いつきました。実験的にレジンを使用したことは、絵画に影響を与えたのと同様に、使い方によって色彩と質感を引き立て合い、相乗効果をもたらしてくれているのです。

 

レジンでジュエリーを創る

 

レジンをつかったイヤリング・ペンダント・ブローチの創作には沢山の工程があります。まず、銀や銅をハンダ付けし、成型して枠をつくり、ひとつずつ丁寧にクリーニングします。その後、宝石やクリスタルそのものの色を引き立てるため、自分のフォトアーカイブから選んだ写真を繊細な和紙や金箔・銀箔にプリントして準備します。

 

レジンの色合いを決める時間は一番のお気に入り。宝石、パール、和紙や箔に印刷した写真など、色を決めるインスピレーションとなるものを注意深く吟味します。何年もの間、海や空の深い青、水鳥の羽根のような緑、やわらかな銀色がかったグレー、温かみのある金色がテーマとなっていますが、レジンを選ぶときも自然とそうした色合いに惹かれています。

 

ジュエリーの素材を集めたら、まず枠を設置し、レジンが流れ出さないように注意深く表面にテープを貼ります。そして金箔、銀箔、宝石、和紙、最後にレジンを重ねていくのです。ひとつの作品は3層から成り、１層ごとに１日以上固まる時間をおかないと、次の工程に進むことができません。およそ３日間かけて完全に固めたのち、やわらかでマットな質感にするため手作業でやすり掛けをして仕上げます。

 

我慢の練習

 

レジン・ジュエリーの創作に伴う多くのチャレンジは、前回のブログテーマである我慢を想い起させます。苦闘することも苛立つことも無く、自然の流れで創作が進むときは最高です。しかしながら、チャレンジ無しにそうした瞬間は得られず、一生勉強は続くのです。

 

ウェアラブル・アートは、ジュエリーの枠からピアスやイヤリングの金具まで時間を掛けて丁寧に創っています。レジンをつかった新しいピアスはウェブサイトで。最新デザインも、お見逃しなく！最新ジュエリーやイベント情報は、ニュースレターの登録がおススメです。

 

 

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Japanese version of this blog found below.

Practice makes patience… 

There are days, and all of us I’m sure can relate, where the world can feel somewhat bleak, and the tendency to becoming grumpy or irritable comes a little more naturally to us. On those days, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of negativity and resistance. During my 20 years in Japan, I learned about the philosophy of gaman. Gaman which can be translated as “patience”, “perseverance”, or “tolerance” is a deeply ingrained Buddhist concept/idea that is innate in Japanese culture. It is a way of reframing your mindset, instead of complaining or being irritable about something that is inevitable. Gaman means simply accepting what is and is not.. giving up control and developing acceptance and equanimity. 

Perhaps the concept of gaman was one of the reasons I was so drawn to Japan. While I was learning textile design in the 80’s I began to read about Japanese traditional weaving and dyeing techniques and this piqued my interest in other arts and crafts in Japan. I wanted to learn more of the process of craft, and developing the required patience was one of my greatest challenges! So much of  creating art and craft requires patience, perseverance, and the tolerance to push through when things go wrong. When I began learning metal smithing there were various techniques that really pushed me to my limits and there still are, it is the nature of the craft. Achieving the correct flame for soldering delicate pieces of metal, firing without breaking enamel work, trying to create a certain colour, keeping my studio organized are just a few of the challenges and the list goes on. Facing difficulties and impatience is a daily test and one that each artist and craftsperson must manage in order to evolve and refine their work. 

Developing gaman or patience can help slow things down and that’s where the beauty lies, in taking time. Then, working becomes a meditative process and I am able to find quiet space within and keep going. When making my wearable art, one of my favourite things is to create simple forms. Simplicity can appear effortless but achieving balance is not always easy, if the design is off by just a millimetre it can affect the overall design. While finding simplicity, I can get lost in the process of discovering the delicate line or curve, textures and colours letting the metal guide me and the entire process brings a sense of calm. 

Gaman/patience is not an innate human quality but rather something acquired through time and practice. In our busy and modern world, the old adage “patience is a virtue” or “good things come to those who wait” are increasingly difficult. We all want and expect immediate results, satisfaction and success. When I look around the modern world, I see all the ways in which the traditional arts and crafts have much to teach us about patience and perseverance, and building the tolerance for non-immediate results. 

Each handcrafted piece in my shop is crafted with these virtues, and I would love for you to check them out. In fact, I just added some new products to my store! You can view them here. To read my past blogs, click here. 

 

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As the extended rainy season ends in Vancouver, it begins in Japan, which the Japanese calle “tsuyu”. From early June to mid-July, the rainy, humid weather takes hold of the island, and creates the perfect conditions for moss to flourish. Moss has always inspired my art, and in this blog, I'll explain how! Continue reading

Japanese Version Below

The first blooms of spring 

After a long dark winter, we anticipate the arrival of cherry blossoms, and with them, spring. These delicate, pink and white flowers float like clouds on the tips of tree branches, and easily entrance us with their beauty. In Japan, these cherry blossoms, or “sakura” are deeply symbolic, and their blossoming brings with it centuries of tradition and ceremony across the country. The sakura in Japan have deep ties to the “wabi sabi” philosophy—the acceptance and the appreciation of the beauty of imperfect things. Sakura also connect to the Buddhist and Shinto themes of impermanence. The short blooming cherry blossoms remind us to live life with awareness and appreciation that nothing lasts forever, and almost everything, including life itself, is transitory. 

Hanami 

During the few short weeks that the cherry blossoms bloom, the people of Japan gather for “hanami”, or “flower viewing”. Hanami can be enjoyed alone, with a small group of friends and family, or in wild and raucous parties in local parks! I myself have participated in all three types of hanami, but found that my true joy was appreciating the sakura in the solace of early morning walks. 

What I learned from the way of the Sakura

The sakura palette inspired me in my jewelry creation, with hues of pale green, delicate and translucent whites, and pale and coppery deep pinks. Furthermore, during my time in Japan, I practiced Zen Buddhism, which opened my eyes to seeing fully—and in the moment. The act of slowing down, in order to better see colour sounds simple, but using that energy and expressing it through artwork is an ever elusive thing. There’s a paradoxical complexity to the most subtle shades of pink and white, and their delicacy requires an amount of calibration and refinement that is immense. 

In my pieces, I often use a lot of layering to bring a sense of depth. There are times when the colours are far too flat and don’t have the necessary light to bring them to life, and achieving that fine balance of depth and light is what I am always chasing, to evoke the colors of the Sakura with the early spring sun filtering through them. In my own opinion, I have yet to capture the ephemeral beauty but I think I came closest in these pieces: 

 

You can check them out on my store here! 

A Tanka 

I want to end this blog post about the beauty of the Sakura by sharing with you a tanka, and wishing you all a spring filled with renewal, hope, and optimism! 

 

 

Cherry blossoms having shed their flower bodies

are folded in 

among the fine gravel

where people walk 

 

Okamoto Kanoko 

Japanese: 

桜道

APR 29, 2022

 

春一番の花

 

長くて暗い冬の後、私たちは桜の開花を、そして共に訪れる春を心待ちにします。その繊細なピンクと白の花は、まるで枝先に浮かぶ雲のようで、いともたやすく私たちを夢中にさせるのです。日本において桜は象徴的な存在であり、その開花は数世紀にわたって連綿と繰り返されてきた営みです。日本の桜は“侘び寂び”の哲学―慎ましさや移ろいゆくものに宿る美や趣を受け入れ評価する考えと深く結びついています。また仏教や神道のテーマでもある非永続性と繋がるものでもあります。短い桜の開花は、何ものも永遠ではなく、人生さえもつかの間であるということを思い出させてくれるのです。

 

花見

 

桜が咲く短い間、日本の人々は花見に集います。ひとりで、友人や家族と少人数で、そして近所の公園などで大人数の賑やかな宴会としても楽しむことができるのです！私は３種類すべての花見を経験しましたが、真の愉しみは、早朝の散歩という癒しのなかで愛でた桜の花にありました。

 

桜から学んだこと

 

桜の色合いは、淡いグリーン、繊細で透明感のある白、青みをおび、ときに銅を含んだようなピンクなど、私のジュエリー創作に多くのひらめきを与えてくれました。さらに、日本で学んだ禅は、而今―この一瞬、過去や未来にとらわれず今をただ精一杯生きること―へ、私の視野を広げてくれたのです。色彩を感じるためにゆっくりと行動するというと単純に聞こえますが、そこにエネルギーを費やし作品を通して表現するのは、難しいことでもあります。ピンクや白の微妙で繊細な陰影には複雑な難しさが存在します。その優美さを表すためには幾度となく修正が必要で、まるで果てのない道のりのようにも思えるのです。

 

バンクーバー　トラウトレイクの桜

 

作品では、何度も層を重ねることで奥行きを表現しています。色合いが単調で精彩に欠けるようなときは、早春の陽に透ける桜を想わせるような、深さと光の絶妙なバランスを捉えたいと　いつも追い求めているのです。そのはかない美しさを捉え切ることは　まだ出来ていませんが、これらの作品では大分近いところまで到達していると自負しています。

作品はオンラインストアでどうぞ！

https://suzuanjewelry.com/collections/earrings/products/petal-pink-resin-earrings

 

短歌

 

桜の美しさを綴った投稿を短歌で締めくくりたいと思います。どうぞ再生と希望と前向きな気持ちに満ちた春を！ 

 

さくらばな　花体を解きて　人のふむ　こまかき砂利に　交じりけるか

 

岡本　かの子

 

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After 20 years in Japan, I learnt how to incorporate the Ganbaru philosophy into my daily life and jewelry creation. Read more to find out how it all came together. Continue reading