【Artist Introduction】I create art works under the name plum musubi, 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, as it blooms beautifully in spring after enduring a 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.I also include my love for the Ume Musubi in my artist name, choosing "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, beginning with gift items brought back by envoys to Sui China, which were tied with red and white hemp cords. Since then, in Japan, mizuhiki have come to symbolize "warding off evil," "purity," and "prosperity," becoming essential auspicious items 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 are made by twisting thin strips of washi paper into cords, then solidifying them with glue, and adding color and gloss. Because the core is paper, they are very lightweight, combining softness and resilience. 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 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 anthology 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 a severe 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 use mizuhiki and the Ume Musubi to purify the hearts of viewers and bring richness and harmony to spaces, as "lucky art."
【Happy Trinity Circle – Sacred Flow of Prosperity】This piece was created with the theme of "harmony and circulation," represented by three circles. Circles have long symbolized eternity, harmony, the universe, and the cycle of energy.In this work, I depict the flow of natural energy using a background of black washi paper, with charcoal, charcoal powder, gofun (white pigment), and gold dust. Flowing gold lines symbolize the flow of life energy and good fortune.
The three circles are expressed three-dimensionally with mizuhiki, each adorned with a Ume Musubi knot, symbolizing the circulation and expansion of bonds, harmony, and happiness.The contrast of gold, silver, and deep-colored mizuhiki expresses the balance of yin and yang, motion and stillness, and the universe.This work was created with the hope of bringing a flow of harmony, prosperity, and happiness into the space.All my works are titled with "Happy," inspired by my brand Happiness Lead, reflecting my wish to be a guiding presence of happiness.I hope this piece brings richness and harmony to the space it adorns and creates a flow of happiness in the lives of those who view it.
【Characteristics of the Work】● ReturnsSince this is an original, one-of-a-kind artwork, returns and exchanges are not accepted.
● Color ChangesBecause acrylic paints and natural materials are used, the colors may change over time. However, this change can be enjoyed as a deepening of the work’s character with age.
● Fixing MizuhikiThe mizuhiki are fixed with adhesive, but depending on gravity and the environment (humidity, temperature), they 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: acrylic paint, charcoal, charcoal powder, gofun, gold dust, mizuhiki● Size: Height 87.1 cm × Width 62.3 cm × Depth 5.4 cm● Weight: approximately 5 kgThis 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 frame allows you to enjoy the three-dimensional beauty of the mizuhiki as it is.A simple, high-quality frame enhances the overall presentation, adding a sense of calm and elegance to the space.