Former Tokyo graphic artist makes beautiful, traditional art from twisted paper

Ask a Japanese person what "mizuhiki" is, and you’ll get responses referring to the intricately twisted cord decoration found on traditional, celebratory gift-envelopes found in Japan. That answer isn’t wrong, since the cords are the most commonly seen form of this unique style of art, but "mizuhiki" is certainly far more than that.

"Mizuhiki" is an old, traditional art form first introduced to Japan from Sui dynasty China during the Asuka era (550-710 A.D.), and is used for far more than making decorative cords for envelopes. The works of art made today using the historic method of tightly wound, starched, and colored rice paper are nothing short of gorgeous.

Hiromi Nagasawa, who was originally a graphic artist from Tokyo, is now making original "mizuhiki" for wedding and engagement gifts, and has her own store in Fukuoka Prefecture. Her works have rightly gained a lot of attentions for their intricacy and sheer beauty.

While "mizuhiki" pieces don’t quite hold the same importance in ceremonial gift-giving as they once did, they are still highly valued works of art.

Even if you can’t make it to Nagasawa’s shop in person her works can be found on her home page, and can also be enjoyed on her Facebook, Instagram and 500px accounts.

Source: Japaaan Magazine

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