A Visit to Ms. Kiyomi's Atelier: Celebrating The Art of Yokoburi Embroidery
As part of EL Canek’s new series, “Visiting other Japanese artisans' ateliers”, we had the honor of visiting the atelier of Ms. Kiyomi, a remarkable artist who has managed to elevate traditional Yokoburi embroidery into an esteemed art form.
Nestled in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Ms. Kiyomi's atelier is a testament to her unyielding passion for craftsmanship. From the moment we stepped in, we could feel the warmth of her dedication, reflected in the meticulous details of her work displayed throughout the atelier.
An artist by heart, Ms. Kiyomi's love for painting since an early age led her to the unique style of Yokoburi embroidery - a technique that allows for intricate three-dimensional designs. She discovered it at just 17 and instantly knew it was her calling. With the machine as her brush and thread as her paint, Ms. Kiyomi has been dedicated to her craft for over six decades.
Despite the challenges she faced, including losing her left eye to an unexplained disease, she remained undeterred. Ms. Kiyomi's commitment to Yokoburi embroidery even led her to showcase her works in esteemed fashion collections, earning her recognition on a global scale.
Her resilience and unwavering spirit were evident in every piece of art displayed in her atelier, each one a testament to her belief that machine-made products can truly be masterful. Even at 83, she continues to create, her spirit fervent and undimmed.
Our visit to Ms. Kiyomi's atelier was an inspiring journey into the world of Yokoburi embroidery. We were moved by her unwavering dedication to her craft, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her success in transforming a traditional technique into a respected art form.
As we continue our series, we look forward to sharing more stories of such inspiring artisans with you. Join us in celebrating the talent, artistry, and spirit of Ms. Kiyomi!
