[Artist Introduction]As plum-musubi, I create art using "Mizuhiki," a traditional Japanese craft. Mizuhiki has been used since ancient times for celebrations and important occasions, symbolizing "connecting people," "connecting relationships," and "connecting happiness." Among the many Mizuhiki knots, I love the "Ume-musubi" (plum knot).
The Ume-musubi symbolizes "perseverance," "rebirth," and "happiness," and carries the meaning of "new beginnings" as it overcomes the harsh winter to bloom beautiful flowers in spring. Deeply drawn to its strength and elegance, I make it a point to always incorporate the Ume-musubi in all my works. I have also put my love for the "Ume-musubi" into my artist name, calling myself plum-musubi. Through my work, I wish to connect people and hearts like the "Ume-musubi," spreading richness and harmony.
[History and Auspiciousness of Mizuhiki]The origin of Mizuhiki dates back to the Asuka period, beginning with the red and white hemp cords tied to gifts brought back by Japanese envoys to Sui China. Since then, Mizuhiki in Japan has signified "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity," becoming an essential good luck charm for ceremonies, funerals, and gifts. Each knot is imbued with prayers for "longevity," "prosperity," and "peace," and is believed to bring good fortune to the recipient.
[About the Structure of Mizuhiki]Mizuhiki is made by twisting thin strips of Japanese paper into cords, hardening them with glue, and then adding color and gloss. The core is made of paper, making it very light, and it possesses both softness and tension. This allows for beautiful knotting and folding shapes, enabling three-dimensional and rich expressions. Although it may sometimes appear metallic, it is actually a unique Japanese material based on Japanese paper.
[Plums and Japanese Culture]While cherry blossoms are now considered Japan's representative flower, in ancient Japan, "flower" referred to plums. Many poems about plum blossoms remain in the "Manyoshu," and plums have been loved by the Japanese people since ancient times, holding a special place. Because plums bloom first after enduring the harsh winter, they are a symbol of "hope," "new beginnings," and "vitality."
[Mizuhiki as Art]Inheriting this history and spirit, I sublimate Mizuhiki, a traditional craft, into contemporary art. I wish to deliver works using Mizuhiki and Ume-musubi to the world as "auspicious art" that purifies the viewer's heart and brings richness and harmony to their space.
[Happy Pine Bamboo Plum – Eternal Harmony of Prosperity]This artwork is created with the theme of "Sho-chiku-bai" (Pine, Bamboo, Plum), a traditional Japanese auspicious motif. Pine, bamboo, and plum have been cherished since ancient times in Japan as an auspicious combination symbolizing "longevity, growth, and prosperity."* Pine, by maintaining its green color year-round, symbolizes unchanging vitality and longevity.* Bamboo, with its straight growth, represents growth and prosperity.* Plum, by blooming after enduring the harsh winter, is a symbol of hope and rebirth.
In this artwork, pine is represented by a bundle of pine needles, bamboo by flowing lines reminiscent of bamboo leaves, and plum by three Ume-musubi knots.The flowing golden lines represent the flow of life energy, symbolizing the power and harmony of nature.
The title always begins with "Happy." This originates from my brand, Happiness Lead, and conveys my desire to be a "guide to happiness." I hope this artwork brings harmony and richness to your space and creates a flow of happiness in your life.
[Artwork Characteristics]* Returns: As this artwork is a one-of-a-kind original, returns and exchanges are not accepted.* Color Changes: Alcohol ink art may change in hue over time. However, this change is not "deterioration"; we hope you will enjoy the unique texture that deepens with time.* Mizuhiki Fixing: The Mizuhiki in this artwork is fixed with adhesive, but it may peel off depending on gravity or the display environment (humidity, temperature, etc.). To enhance strength, heavier parts are secured by sewing paper and Mizuhiki with thread, but please handle with great care.
[Size and Materials]* Technique: Acrylic paints, Mizuhiki* Size: Height 87.1 cm × Width 62.3 cm × Depth 5.4 cm* Weight: 5 kg
This artwork will be delivered framed in a black box frame. The frame uses UV-cut acrylic that blocks approximately 97% of ultraviolet rays, protecting the artwork from fading and deterioration. Furthermore, its deep box shape allows you to enjoy the three-dimensional beauty of the Mizuhiki as is. The simple yet luxurious black frame enhances the overall artwork, bringing calmness and elegance to the space where it is displayed.