【Artist Introduction】I create art works under the name "plum結び" using the traditional Japanese craft "mizuhiki." Mizuhiki are symbolic of "connecting people," "forming bonds," and "bringing happiness," and have been used since ancient times in celebrations and important occasions. Among the many types of mizuhiki knots, I love the Ume Musubi (plum knot) the most.
The Ume Musubi symbolizes "patience," "rebirth," and "happiness," and, because it blooms into beautiful flowers after enduring the harsh winter, it also represents "new beginnings." I am deeply attracted to its strength and elegance, and I make it a point to incorporate the Ume Musubi into all my works.Furthermore, I have named my artist persona "plum結び" to express my love for the Ume Musubi. Through my works, I hope to connect people and hearts, just like the Ume Musubi, and to spread richness and harmony.
【History and Significance of Mizuhiki】The origins of mizuhiki date back to the Asuka period, when red and white hemp cords were tied to gifts brought back by envoys to Sui China. Since then, mizuhiki have come to symbolize "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity" in Japan, becoming an essential auspicious element in ceremonies such as weddings, funerals, and gift-giving.Each knotting method carries prayers for "longevity," "prosperity," and "peace," and is believed to bring good luck to the recipient.
【Structure of Mizuhiki】Mizuhiki are made by twisting thin strips of washi paper into a cord-like shape, then solidifying them with glue, and adding color and gloss. Because the core is made of paper, it is very lightweight, flexible, and resilient. This allows the knots and folds to retain their beautiful shapes, enabling three-dimensional and rich expressions.Although they may sometimes appear metallic, mizuhiki are actually made from a unique Japanese material based on washi paper.
【Plum and Japanese Culture】While cherry blossoms are now considered Japan’s representative flower, in ancient Japan, "flower" referred to the plum blossom. Many poems in the Manyoshu (the oldest anthology of Japanese poetry) praise the plum, which has been loved and cherished by the Japanese since ancient times.Because the plum blooms first after enduring the cold winter, it symbolizes "hope," "new beginnings," and "vitality."
【Mizuhiki as Art】I inherit this history and spirit and elevate mizuhiki, a traditional craft, into contemporary art. I wish to deliver works that, using mizuhiki and the Ume Musubi, purify the hearts of viewers and bring richness and harmony to spaces—what I call "lucky art."
【Happy Ascension – Flow of Radiant Leap】
This piece is created using washi paper as a base, combined with traditional Japanese materials such as charcoal, sumi (black ink), gofun (white pigment), and gold powder. Mizuhiki is incorporated into the work, themed around "leap" and "ascension."
The three large Ume Musubi knots symbolize "patience," "rebirth," and "happiness," representing growth and leap forward through overcoming difficulties. The number "three" signifies "stability," "harmony," and "development," indicating a state where energy circulates and rises to even greater heights.
A bold gold line crossing the canvas symbolizes the flow and expansion of life energy, while intersecting silver and white mizuhiki add energies of purification, intuition, and new beginnings.
The natural strength of charcoal and sumi, the soft whiteness of gofun, and the brilliance of gold powder blend to fuse traditional Japanese beauty with modern dynamism.
All my works are titled with "Happy" as a common element, inspired by my brand "Happiness Lead," embodying the wish "to be a guiding presence of happiness." I hope this piece brings powerful upward energy and richness to your space, and that it sparks positive change and leap forward in the lives of those who view it.
【About the Work’s Characteristics】●Returns:Since this is a one-of-a-kind original artwork, returns and exchanges are not accepted.
●Color Changes Over Time:Because natural materials such as washi paper, charcoal, sumi, gofun, and gold powder are used, the texture may change with age. However, this is not deterioration but an enhancement of beauty over time, and I hope you enjoy this evolving character.
●Fixing of Mizuhiki:The mizuhiki are fixed with adhesive, but depending on gravity and the environment (humidity, temperature, etc.), they may come loose. To increase durability, heavier parts are sewn with thread to the paper and mizuhiki. Please handle with care.
【Size and Materials】● Techniques: washi paper, charcoal, sumi, gofun, gold powder, mizuhiki● Size: Height 129.9 cm × Width 99.6 cm × Depth 5.6 cm● Weight: approximately 12.8 kg
The artwork is delivered framed in a black box frame.The frame uses UV-cut acrylic that blocks about 97% of ultraviolet rays, protecting the piece from fading and deterioration. Its box-style depth allows you to enjoy the three-dimensional beauty of the mizuhiki as it is. The simple, luxurious black frame enhances the overall work, adding a sense of calm and elegance to your space.