Karakami Printmaking with Takuma & Aiko

Takuma and Aiko are printmakers of karakami, a traditional decorative paper that came to Japan from Tang China during the Nara Period. At first, this paper was used for transcribing poetry, such as short tanka poems or haikai linked verse, and slowly started getting used in interiors. After studying printing techniques in an art college and training in an ancient store in Kyoto, Takuma established his own studio in the countryside of Shiga with his wife, Aiko, who designs their works. Taking a contemporary approach, they print on Japanese washi paper using hand carved wood blocks to make fusuma panels, sliding doors, folding screens, and wallpapers. Paying tribute to the long tradition of karakami while living in a traditional house, surrounded by mountains, rivers, rice fields and temples - that's what this one is about.