[Artist Introduction]I create art works under the name "plum musubi," using the traditional Japanese craft "mizuhiki." Mizuhiki has been used since ancient times in celebrations and important occasions as a symbol of "binding people," "connecting relationships," and "bringing happiness."
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, as it blooms beautifully in spring 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.
My love for the Ume musubi is also reflected in my artist name, "plum musubi." Through my works, I hope to connect people and hearts, 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 tied to gifts brought back by envoys to Sui China are believed to be the beginning of mizuhiki. Since then, in Japan, mizuhiki has come to symbolize "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity," becoming an essential auspicious item for ceremonies such as weddings and funerals, as well as for gift wrapping.
Each knot style embodies 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 gluing and finishing with color and gloss. Because the core is made of paper, it is very lightweight, and it 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, it is actually a unique Japanese material based on washi paper.
[Ume 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 include references to ume, and the plum has been loved and regarded as special by the Japanese since ancient times.
The plum, which blooms first after enduring the cold winter, symbolizes "hope," "new beginnings," and "vitality." Its fragrant flowers soothe people's hearts and have been treasured as symbols of learning and the arts.
Today, about 6,000 plum trees are planted at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, and in spring, the precincts are beautifully decorated with plum blossoms. The plum continues to be a flower that signals "hope and prosperity" in Japanese culture, loved by many people.
[Mizuhiki as Art]Carrying forward this history and spirit, I elevate the traditional craft of mizuhiki into contemporary art. Works using mizuhiki and plum knots aim to purify the viewer's heart and bring richness and harmony to the space, delivering "lucky art" to the world.
[Happy Power – Vital Energy of Plum-Musubi]This piece is themed around the "circle of energy," expressed with abundant gold and silver mizuhiki, based on alcohol ink art. Centered on a vibrant yellow that shines like the sun, it is designed to evoke inner strength, vitality, and forward momentum in the viewer.
Two plum knots are placed at the center, symbolizing "patience, rebirth, and happiness," which are embedded as the core of the work. The image of circulating and expanding energy aims to inspire vitality and courage, encouraging new challenges.
The title includes "Happy," derived from my brand name "Happiness Lead," embodying the wish "to be a guiding presence of happiness." I also hope that happiness will come to those who possess this work, and that a bright, powerful energy will spread through the space. The plum knot's meanings of "patience, rebirth, and happiness," along with the art's ability to bring harmony and hope, support a cycle of abundance, making it a "happiness-guiding art."
[Characteristics of the Work]● Returns: Since this is a one-of-a-kind original artwork, returns and exchanges are not accepted.● Color Changes: Alcohol ink art may change in tone over time. However, this is not deterioration but a unique aging process that adds depth and character, which I hope you enjoy.● Fixing Mizuhiki: The mizuhiki is fixed with adhesive, but it may come loose due to gravity or environmental factors such as humidity and temperature. To enhance durability, heavier parts are sewn to the paper with thread. Please handle with care, as it is a delicate three-dimensional piece.● Acrylic Panel: To maximize the three-dimensional effect of the mizuhiki, the work is framed without an acrylic cover. This allows you to enjoy the gloss and shadows of the mizuhiki directly. However, it is sensitive to dust and moisture, so please consider the environment where it is displayed.
[Size and Materials]● Technique: Alcohol ink art, mizuhiki (plum knot)● Size: Height 94.8 cm × Width 75 cm × Depth 2 cm● Weight: approximately 3.8 kg● Framed: Yes (without acrylic panel)