I have decided that this week will be Japan Week! I will be sharing some photos inspired by Japan. Since I was a child, I have been intrigued by the Japanese culture and sense of design. I have poured over books about Japanese art, gardens, food, music, the language, and the people. I honestly do not know why I have such a connection with this culture, but it truly brings me joy and endless fascination. The Japanese simplistic, yet strong aesthetics will always inspire me when producing my own work.
Today, I chose to share some images featuring nature. Nature is an important element in Japanese design. It appears in kimono patterns, food, art, etc. and is incorporated into the daily lives of Japanese people. They are a nation that embraces each season and chooses to take advantage of all that nature has to offer.
Ikebana is a specialized type of flower arranging and is considered a disciplined art form in Japan. There are certain rules one must follow and each element is added with intention. I honestly did not follow these rules perfectly and was just trying to demonstrate the concept of ikebana in my arrangement above. I love the whole idea of "less is more" and I appreciate that ikebana can highlight a specific flower without distraction. Ikebana is also focused on the natural shape and deviates from the Westernized symmetrical bouquets and arrangements.
These aren't the clearest of images, but in a moment of serendipity I came upon the end of a tea ceremony at Duke Gardens a few months ago. The ladies looked breathtaking in their kimono. The tea house is one of my favorite spots in these gardens. There is a certain serenity about the area and I feel relaxed when I visit.
It is my dream to be able to visit Japan with my husband some day... perhaps this is what some of the gardens will look like?
I think I can safely say there will be some gardens that look like this. I got a flash of nostalgia when I saw the photos and was wondering at first how you could've gotten these, haha. Some of the trees are different, but it's pretty much a lot like this. I had no ideas Duke Gardens had an area like this. Very pretty.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great theme! I'm definitely looking forward to more of this one!
That is the biggest compliment ever! As someone who has studied in Japan, I am so happy that you initially thought these shots were taken there. :)
DeleteGreat post! I think Japan would be an awesome place to visit...but I'm also afraid because I'm a picky eater. Always a weirdo!
ReplyDeleteThey actually have delicious and very healthy food there (or so I have heard). Even if you don't like sushi, they have incredible ramen. It is not like the ramen you buy 10 packs for $1 here, haha.
DeleteEmily, you amaze me! I never did see your magazine article. Can I still get a copy from the publisher?
ReplyDeleteThank you! A few of the publications are still in stores. You can see which ones I am in by checking out the "Press" section of my site. I believe that the Artful Blogging magazine and possibly the Romantic Living magazines are still in stores.
DeleteYour artwork is beautiful and you are an inspiration to me! :)
You will get to Japan someday, Emily-Claire! Make it one of your goals to reach in the next five years, start saving, envision yourself being there, and you will make it happen! I have every faith that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Your words are so encouraging!!! It is not just a "vacation" for me... I will get SO MUCH out of visiting Japan. I think I will be inspired for the rest of my life! It will happen some day. I have faith and I will work hard.
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