【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, representing the beautiful flowers that bloom in spring after enduring the harsh winter, it also signifies "new beginnings." Deeply attracted by its strength and elegance, I make it a point to incorporate the Ume Musubi into all my works.
Furthermore, I have expressed my love for the Ume Musubi 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 Good Fortune of Mizuhiki】The origin of mizuhiki dates 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, weddings, funerals, and gift-giving.
Each knotting method 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 thinly cut washi paper into a cord-like shape, then solidifying it with glue, and finishing with color and gloss. Because the core is made of paper, it is very lightweight, combining softness and resilience. This allows the knots and folds to remain beautifully shaped, 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】Today, cherry blossoms are considered Japan’s representative flower, but 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 a special symbol by the Japanese since ancient times.
Because the ume blooms first after enduring the cold winter, it has come to symbolize "hope," "new beginnings," and "vitality." Its fragrant flowers soothe people's hearts and have been treasured as symbols of learning and the arts.
At Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, approximately 6,000 ume trees are planted, and in spring, the precincts are beautifully decorated with plum blossoms. Even today, the ume is cherished in Japanese culture as a "flower heralding hope and prosperity."
【Mizuhiki as Art】While inheriting this history and spirit, I elevate the traditional craft of mizuhiki into contemporary art. Works using mizuhiki and the Ume Musubi aim to purify the viewer’s heart and bring richness and harmony to the space, delivering "lucky art" to the world.
【Happy Flower – Bloom of Inner Radiance】This piece, "Happy Flower – Bloom of Inner Radiance," is themed around pure light and inner brilliance. It features a fantastical background of blue and silver created with alcohol ink art, with a large flower blooming from white and silver mizuhiki.
At the center of the flower is the Ume Musubi, symbolizing delicate beauty and powerful vitality, like a plum blossom.
The Ume Musubi embodies "patience," "rebirth," and "happiness," and this work expresses "new beginnings" and "inner radiance." The clear blue background represents purity and mental clarity, purifying the viewer’s heart and providing calm, positive energy.
【Concept】As the title "Bloom of Inner Radiance" suggests, this work’s theme is “bringing forth the inner light.” The silver and white shimmer symbolize "purity" and "rebirth," while the blue background represents "infinite possibilities."
It aims to purify the viewer’s heart and evoke hope and brilliance for the future, transforming the space into a sacred, bright environment. The title includes "Happy," inspired by my brand name "Happiness Lead," reflecting my wish to be a source of happiness.
I also hope that those who acquire this piece will find happiness and that a bright, powerful energy will spread through their space. The mizuhiki Ume Musubi’s meanings of "patience," "rebirth," and "happiness" bring harmony and hope to viewers, supporting the cycle of abundance as "art that guides happiness."
【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 you can enjoy.●Fixing Mizuhiki: The mizuhiki is glued in place, but depending on gravity and the environment (humidity, temperature), it may come loose. To enhance durability, heavy parts are sewn with thread to the paper. Please handle with care.
【Size and Materials】●Technique: Alcohol ink art, acrylic paint, mizuhiki (Ume Musubi)●Size: Height 87.1 cm × Width 62.3 cm × Thickness 5.4 cm●Weight: 5 kg
This work is 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.
The box-style frame allows the three-dimensional beauty of the mizuhiki to be fully appreciated. The simple, high-quality black border enhances the overall presentation, creating a calm and elegant space.