I wonder how “an Artist” makes a living out of what they do. In today’s society, it is very difficult to make ends meet as a Sashiko Practitioner. To be honest, I feel it is “impossible” – not difficult. Well… it can be because of me as I have been failing from this “make a living” perspective. In fact, it is very difficult for many “craftsmen” to make ends meet. Therefore, I teach Sashiko. “Make Ends Meet by doing a Cultural Practice” significantly influences Cultural Sustainability. Therefore, I have an Online Store to keep them above the water (yet I am not so successful in this). Yes, it is true that there are many artists who make a living, too. Well, that’s another reason I do not consider myself as an Artist (which you may disagree based on our difference of definition of “Artist”).
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After all, it is “Our” choice of what we value – more specifically, it is the matter of “What we want to have in the future”. I wish I can keep the “Japanese Sashiko” rather than just superficially commercialized Sashiko – and for that, I try to pay as much as I can for other Sashiko artisans & suppliers. I can do so thanks to many supporters on Patreon as well as my wife. Before 2011, I needed to carry this burden on my own – single – shoulder… and I failed myself (ourselves) in so many ways.
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I, of course, blamed myself for the failure. It is true that I need to keep improving myself. However, at the same time, some of the failures were outside of my control – the trend itself pushed the local people off the stage. How many “Sashiko Supply Stores” understand what Sashiko really is? How many “Sashiko teachers” actually have done the Sashiko stitching we practice? How many “Sashiko Artists” acknowledge the long-lasting (yet vanishing/vanished) Sashiko suppliers? I wonder… What is the future for [Art and Craft]. It is us who define that for our future.
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英語圏では「刺し子は技術・技法」と宣言する人が沢山います。間違ってはいないのですが、何か物足りない。「技」の部分だけあれば刺し子は完結するのかというと、そんな単純なものじゃなくて。逆に言うと、「技」がなくても刺し子は完結したりして。
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翻訳の難しさ…なんでしょうね。どうも言葉にならないニュアンスが削ぎ落とされてしまう。英語で「刺し子は技術だけじゃないよ」というと「じゃぁなんなんだ」と直ぐに答えを求められる。それがわからないから一生かけて針持ってる人がいるんだよ、と。言葉にできなくても作品に落とし込める人を大切にしたいものです。
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2023-07-27 22:41:39
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You are an artist. Most artists die long before they are recognized as such. But you walk your talk and live as you believe. This is what really matters, in my opinion
You have been a great inspiration to me as I have been trying to learn and find Japanese Sashiko techniques and stories of the origin and culture. After disappointing classes from “experts”, I stopped trying Sashiko stitching for a while. Now I am so thankful and happy to hear your stories and culture as well as techniques. I hope you will be able to continue your work of passion with Sashiko Stories. Thank you
I bought all I could from your store and enjoyed your class. The material and thread are wonderful. Hard work, too. Getting the rhythm and such. I’m sorry, so many take the surface and think they know it. I saw a book binder who used a bit of Sashiko on a cover. It was trite. I felt angry and I didn’t know much about it except from your class. Trivialization is an easy way to make something. I cringe when I hear a book arts teacher say, “You can make this in an hour.” The term “junk journals” is offensive to me. I understand your feelings on all of this, as best as I can. Best wishes.
As an admirer of your incredible craftsmanship, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for the remarkable work you do. Your dedication to the art of Sashiko is truly awe-inspiring, and your creations have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on those who have had the privilege to witness them.
The art of Sashiko carries with it a rich history and tradition that spans centuries. Through your skilled hands, you breathe life into this timeless art form, preserving its essence and passing it on to future generations. Your commitment to honing your craft is evident in every stitch, as you bring together beauty and functionality in perfect harmony.
Your Sashiko creations have a unique ability to captivate and transcend cultural boundaries, touching the hearts of people around the world. Through your art, you have the power to bring joy, comfort, and inspiration to others. Your work not only beautifies fabric but also has the potential to bring a sense of calm and serenity to those who behold it.
As you continue to create, remember that your work has an extraordinary impact on both individuals and the broader artistic community. Your dedication and passion serve as a beacon of inspiration to fellow artisans and aspiring crafters alike. By sharing your knowledge and expertise, you contribute to the preservation and evolution of Sashiko, ensuring that it remains vibrant and relevant in a rapidly changing world.
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I love your work and posts!
Muy hermoso ❤️
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Your skills and passion transform not only the fabric and thread into works of art but also people’s hearts and minds into more culturally open and accepting vessels ❤️