A Paper Poet

We had a glorious 2 day paper making workshop with Tsuguo Yanai at his studio in the mountains. Upon arrival, he invited us to take tea and talk about his work. He is one of the best paper makers in the world. He is a purist. He grows the (kozo) mulberry tree, strips the bark and dries it. He then beats it (literally) to a pulp. He uses the pulp to make the paper to create stunning paintings, sculptures and installations. The process of making paper the Japanese way is a bit different from the American way. The technique of moving the mould and deckle through the water has a very different rhythm.

Please visit Yanai-San's website to see his most amazing artwork.

https://paperartstudio.weebly.com/tsuguo-yanai-washi-artwork.html

This is Yanai-San showing us how to make paper the Japanese way. He creates "waves" on top of the mold and deckle (the frame pictured in his hands) rather than simply dipping the mold in the water and letting it seep through. It creates a lovely sound; like water droplets hitting a pond. Thoink. He says he doesn't listen to music in his studio.....just the sound of the water.

Gabi, Yasmin and Michael taking in the demo.

Pictured are a few pieces of the artist's work. His studio was the envy of us all! Tall ceilings, large walls, cement floors, huge sink and several drains. Honey, would you kindly build this for me?

                                                      Preparing our papers to dry.

The Magic Hour

Cheers to a good day's work!!
Yasmin, Yanai, Chika, Me, Margaret and Michael.

For dinner, Yasmin and Margaret made the most delicious pasta with tomato sauce and a lovely, crunchy salad. Yanai's partner, paper artist Yoshiko Fujinami (https://paperartstudio.weebly.com/workshop.html)  served us a wonderful Italian red wine.

I LOVE this picture in so many ways. Yoshiko's expression of satisfaction is a joy to behold!!

Kanpai! Life is good.

Sleepover, Japanese style.
We fell asleep to the sound of thunder and rain. We woke up to birds singing and Michael snoring. 😬

Another busy day of making paper.

I am pleased. May (the pooch) is not impressed.

     Here are samples of our paper creations. Yanai-San said it takes about 3 years to really undestand the art of paper making.  Oh, well....I guess I have to come back again.....!!!



         There are some days when I think I'm going to die from an overdose of satisfaction.                                                                      Salvador Dali