Tarashikomi / Flow
Tarashikomi (Japanese for “dripping in”) is a unique Japanese painting technique where a second layer of paint is applied before the first layer is dry. This technique produces beautiful organic patterns that resemble ripples in water or flower petals on a tree.
To make the Tarashikomi/ Flow lacquer panel, black lacquer, white lacquer and brass powder are dissolved in a solvent and poured over the base. Each piece is completely unique as the final appearance depends on how the lacquer flows.
Washi / Urushi on Japanese Paper
Washi papermaking is a registered UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. It is made from the fibres of the Ganpi, Kozo (paper mulberry) and Mitsumata trees during the cold of winter. Cold running water is essential to the process as it causes the natural fibres to contract and create a crisp sheet. This handcrafted paper is used in many traditional arts such as Origami (paper folding), Shodo (calligraphy), and Ukiyo-e (woodblock printing).
This panel is crafted by laying textured washi paper on the base. Urushi (lacquer) is then applied - a difficult technique to master. This achieves a beautiful finish with an organic feeling.
Nuno / Urushi on Linen
Nuno is Japanese for fabric.
This panel is created by applying linen under urushi (lacquer). This achieves an elegant textured finish.
Kintsugi / Beautiful Imperfection
Kintsugi literally means “to join with gold”. This art of repair developed alongside the Japanese art of tea - with a shared recognition of beauty in the impermanent and imperfect.The technique was originally developed for restoring expensive ceramic tea utensils like chawan (tea bowls).
To make this panel, a mixture of clay powder and lacquer is applied to the wood. This creates the effect of cracks in the background. Gold leaf is then applied to resemble repair.