**【Artist Introduction】**I create art pieces under the name **plum-musubi**, utilizing the traditional Japanese craft of "Mizuhiki."Since ancient times, Mizuhiki has been used for celebrations and important occasions as a symbol of "connecting people," "tying bonds (En-musubi)," and "binding happiness."
Among the many types of Mizuhiki knots, I have a deep affection for the **Ume-musubi** (Plum Blossom Knot). The Ume-musubi symbolizes "perseverance," "rebirth," and "happiness." Because plum trees bloom beautifully in spring after enduring the harsh winter, they also signify "new beginnings." Deeply drawn to its strength and elegance, I make it a point to incorporate the Ume-musubi into every one of my works. I chose the name **plum-musubi** to reflect my love for this knot. Through my art, I hope to connect people and hearts—just like the Ume-musubi—and spread abundance and harmony.
**【History and Auspiciousness of Mizuhiki】**The origins of Mizuhiki date back to the Asuka period, said to have begun when red and white hemp cords were tied to gifts brought back by Japanese envoys to Sui Dynasty China. Since then, Mizuhiki has represented "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity," becoming an essential auspicious element for ceremonial occasions and gift-giving in Japan. Each knot carries prayers for "longevity," "prosperity," and "peace," and is believed to bring good fortune to the recipient.
**【Structure of Mizuhiki】**Mizuhiki is made by cutting Japanese paper (washi) into thin strips, twisting them into cords, hardening them with glue, and finishing them with color or luster. Because the core is made of paper, it is very lightweight and possesses both softness and tension. This allows the shapes of the knots and folds to remain beautiful, enabling three-dimensional and rich expressions. While it may sometimes look like metal, it is actually a unique Japanese material based on washi.
**【Plum Blossoms and Japanese Culture】**While cherry blossoms (Sakura) are considered the representative flower of Japan today, in ancient Japan, the word "flower" typically referred to the plum (Ume). Numerous poems about plum blossoms remain in the *Man'yoshu* (the oldest collection of Japanese poetry), showing that they have been loved and held as special by Japanese people since ancient times. As the first to bloom after the harsh winter, plum blossoms have been a symbol of "hope," "new beginnings," and "vitality." Furthermore, their fragrant blossoms have comforted people's hearts and have been cherished as symbols of learning and the arts.
Even today, approximately 6,000 plum trees are planted at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, coloring the grounds beautifully in spring. Plum blossoms continue to be cherished by many as the "flower that heralds hope and prosperity" within Japanese culture.
**【Mizuhiki as Art】**While inheriting this history and spirit, I elevate the traditional craft of Mizuhiki into contemporary art. I wish to share these "Auspicious Arts"—works using Mizuhiki and Ume-musubi that purify the viewer's heart and bring abundance and harmony to a space—with the world.
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**【Happy Gold – Flow of Light and Blessings】**
**About the Work**"Happy Gold – Flow of Light and Blessings" is a piece themed around the flow of golden light and blessings. Against a background of soft fluctuations created by alcohol ink art, bold gold Mizuhiki spreads out, filling the entire space with brightness and energy. Specifically, by placing five large gold Ume-musubi, I have imbued the piece with the meanings of "happiness," "perseverance," and "rebirth," representing protection and harmony from the five directions. The brilliance of gold has been a symbol of "prosperity," "success," and "increased financial luck" since ancient times; this work exists as an amulet that attracts light and blessings.
**Concept**With the theme of "the flow of light and blessings," this work brings brightness and abundance to the space where it is displayed. The energy emitted by the golden radiance grants the owner "prosperity," "happiness," and "harmony," illuminating hope for the future.The title includes the word "Happy," which originates from my brand name **"Happiness Lead,"** reflecting my desire to be "an existence that leads to happiness." Simultaneously, I hope that happiness visits the person who possesses this work and that a bright, powerful energy spreads through their space. This is "Art that Leads to Happiness," supporting a cycle of abundance while bringing harmony and hope to the viewer through the Ume-musubi's meanings of "perseverance, rebirth, and happiness."
**Characteristics of the Work*** **Returns:** As this is a one-of-a-kind original art piece, we do not accept returns or exchanges.* **Color Changes:** The tones of alcohol ink art may change over the years. Please enjoy this change not as "deterioration," but as a unique character that deepens over time.* **Mizuhiki Attachment:** The Mizuhiki in this work is fixed with adhesive; however, it may peel off depending on gravity or the display environment (humidity, temperature, etc.). To increase strength, heavy sections have been reinforced by sewing the Mizuhiki to the paper with thread, but please handle with sufficient care.
**Size and Materials*** **Technique:** Alcohol ink art, acrylic paint, Mizuhiki (Ume-musubi)* **Size:** Height 87.1 cm × Width 62.3 cm × Depth 5.4 cm* **Weight:** 5 kg
This work will be delivered framed in a black box frame. The frame uses **UV-cut acrylic** that blocks approximately 97% of ultraviolet rays, protecting the work from fading and deterioration. Additionally, the deep box-style frame allows you to enjoy the three-dimensional beauty of the Mizuhiki as it is. The simple yet luxurious black frame enhances the entire piece, bringing composure and dignity to the space where it is displayed.