Japanese Paper Folding and Origata with Yuko
Discover the elegance of Japanese paper with renowned artist Yuko in her serene studio. Learn intricate folding techniques, craft traditional washi paper, and explore the depths of paper art as you immerse yourself in Japan's rich cultural heritage.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1690
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $600
Meet the Artist
Yuko is a renowned paper artist celebrated for her intricate and elegant sculptures. Born in France and raised in Tokyo, her international background and love for craftsmanship shaped her artistic journey. With an architecture education and a deep interest in Bauhaus composition, Yuko's fascination with paper began during her university years when she explored its role in traditional Japanese architecture. This exploration led her to become a paper sculptor, pushing the boundaries of traditional origami into contemporary art and earning her international recognition.
Yuko's work is characterized by its innovative use of paper, exploring abstract forms and the concept of "folding paper" through sculptures, installations, and architectural surfaces. One of the most captivating aspects of her work is how it interacts with light; the folds and creases she creates add depth and texture, bringing her pieces to life.
Unlike traditional figurative origami, Yuko emphasizes abstract expressions, expanding the possibilities of paper as an art medium. Her creative process is meditative, requiring immense patience and precision, with each deliberate fold contributing to the overall harmony of the piece. She sees her work as inextricable from traditional Japanese etiquette and the country's paper culture while also underscoring the environmental benefits of using paper, a sustainable material.
Passionate about sharing her craft, Yuko finds joy in inviting others to look beyond the surface of Japanese washi paper, appreciating the beauty in the details and the profound simplicity of a well-folded crease.
Yuko's work is characterized by its innovative use of paper, exploring abstract forms and the concept of "folding paper" through sculptures, installations, and architectural surfaces. One of the most captivating aspects of her work is how it interacts with light; the folds and creases she creates add depth and texture, bringing her pieces to life.
Unlike traditional figurative origami, Yuko emphasizes abstract expressions, expanding the possibilities of paper as an art medium. Her creative process is meditative, requiring immense patience and precision, with each deliberate fold contributing to the overall harmony of the piece. She sees her work as inextricable from traditional Japanese etiquette and the country's paper culture while also underscoring the environmental benefits of using paper, a sustainable material.
Passionate about sharing her craft, Yuko finds joy in inviting others to look beyond the surface of Japanese washi paper, appreciating the beauty in the details and the profound simplicity of a well-folded crease.
VAWAA Includes:
- Dive into Yuko's techniques for crafting folded paper forms.
- Experience the joy of creating traditional Japanese paper by boiling, beating, and stretching the raw materials.
- Touch, fold, and move paper as a 3D sketching technique to create shapes and forms.
- Learn the traditional Japanese etiquette of "wrapping" (origata) and uncover other aspects of Japanese paper culture.
- Join a guided tour of paper exhibitions, stores, and factories in Tokyo for an additional fee.
- Optionally, extend your experience with a 2-day visit to the Tosa Washi paper makers' studio in Kochi Prefecture for an additional fee.
Explore Kawasaki, Greater Tokyo Area
Yuko's studio is located in Japan's Kanagawa Prefecture on a hillside in Kawasaki, between Tokyo and Yokohama. Surrounded by nature, it is a vibrant urban hub known for its dynamic blend of industrial prowess and cultural heritage. Home to the famed Kawasaki Daishi Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, and the unique Fujiko F. Fujio Museum dedicated to the creator of the popular manga character Doraemon, Kawasaki offers a diverse array of attractions.
You can explore the city's rich history at the Nihon Minkaen open-air folk house museum or enjoy contemporary art at the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art. With its bustling markets, lively festivals, and scenic riverside parks, Kawasaki City provides a captivating experience for travelers seeking modern and traditional Japanese culture. For a bit more hustle-bustle, central Tokyo is just a 25-minute train away.
You can explore the city's rich history at the Nihon Minkaen open-air folk house museum or enjoy contemporary art at the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art. With its bustling markets, lively festivals, and scenic riverside parks, Kawasaki City provides a captivating experience for travelers seeking modern and traditional Japanese culture. For a bit more hustle-bustle, central Tokyo is just a 25-minute train away.
Additional Details
The best times to visit Kawasaki City are during the mild and pleasant spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) months, ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions and seasonal beauty. It’s best to avoid hot and humid summer (June to August) and the chilly, rainy winter (December to February), which can limit outdoor activities.
Children and seniors are welcome. However, please note that the studio is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs.
Yuko speaks Japanese and simple English.
Children and seniors are welcome. However, please note that the studio is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs.
Yuko speaks Japanese and simple English.