【Artist Introduction】
I create art works under the name "plum結び" using the traditional Japanese craft "mizuhiki." Mizuhiki is a symbol of "connecting people," "forming bonds," and "bringing happiness," and has 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, representing the beautiful flowers that bloom in spring after enduring a harsh winter, also signifies "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.
My love for the Ume Musubi is also reflected in my artist name, "plum結び." Through my works, I hope to connect people and hearts, like the Ume Musubi, and to spread richness and harmony.

【History and Good Fortune of Mizuhiki】
The origins of mizuhiki date back to the Asuka period, when gift items brought back by envoys to Sui China were tied with red and white hemp cords. Since then, in Japan, mizuhiki has come to symbolize "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity," becoming an essential auspicious item for ceremonies, weddings, funerals, and gift-giving.
Each knot is imbued with prayers for "longevity," "prosperity," and "peace," and is believed to bring good luck to the recipient.

【Structure of Mizuhiki】
Mizuhiki is 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, and combines softness with resilience. This allows the knots and folds to retain their beautiful shapes, enabling three-dimensional and rich expressions.
Although it may sometimes appear metallic, mizuhiki is actually a unique Japanese material based on washi paper.

【Ume and Japanese Culture】
Today, cherry blossoms are considered Japan’s representative flower, but in ancient Japan, "flower" referred to the plum blossom. Many poems in the Manyoshu (the oldest collection of Japanese poetry) praise the plum, which has been loved and regarded as special 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. Works using mizuhiki and the Ume Musubi aim to purify the hearts of viewers and bring richness and harmony to spaces, delivering "lucky art" to the world.

【Happy Cosmic Circulation – Infinite Harmony of Energy】
This piece was created with the theme of the circulation of energy expressed solely through mizuhiki. By intentionally setting the background pure white, I maximized the delicate movement and three-dimensionality of the mizuhiki lines.
The curves arranged around the entire piece symbolize cosmic energy, the flow of life, and invisible connections. The circular movement of the mizuhiki represents circulation, harmony, and infinite expansion.

The Ume Musubi placed at each point symbolizes happiness, rebirth, and new beginnings, expressing how energy connects and spreads.
The contrast of gold, white, and black mizuhiki symbolizes light and shadow, yin and yang, and the balance of the universe.
This work is designed to bring both tranquility and a flow of energy into the space.
The title always includes "Happy," derived from my brand Happiness Lead, embodying my wish to be a guiding presence of happiness.
I hope this piece brings harmony and richness to the space where it is displayed and creates a flow of happiness in the lives of viewers.

【Characteristics of the Work】
●Returns: Since this is a one-of-a-kind original artwork, returns and exchanges are not accepted.
●Color Changes: Mizuhiki is made from washi-based material, so its texture may change over time. This variation is also part of the charm of the piece.
●Fixing of Mizuhiki:
The mizuhiki in this work is fixed with adhesive, but depending on gravity and the environment (humidity, temperature), it may come loose.
To enhance durability, heavier parts are sewn with thread to the paper and mizuhiki. Please handle with care.

【Size and Materials】
●Technique: Mizuhiki
●Size: Height 87.1 cm × Width 62.3 cm × Thickness 5.4 cm
●Weight: approximately 5 kg
This work is delivered framed in a white box frame.
The frame uses UV-cut acrylic that blocks about 97% of ultraviolet rays, protecting the artwork from fading and deterioration.
The box-style depth allows you to enjoy the three-dimensional beauty of the mizuhiki as it is.
A simple, high-quality white frame enhances the overall work, bringing tranquility and elegance to the space where it is displayed.