Thursday 27 May 2021

Japanese icons

 Whilst living in Japan I grew a great appreciation for all things Japanese. This inspired me to design an art print which encompassed all may favourite things from kimonos and geta to sushi and sake, and many more. This illustration is printed onto a lovely thick watercolour paper which you can buy through my Etsy store.


 Alternatively you can buy this as a print in my Spoonflower shop. It can be bought by the yard on a variety of fabrics or you can choose from a selection of ready-made items such as cushions and bedding to tableware and throws.


I also decided to create some offshoot prints, using images from the main design. Mount Fuji is a stunning sight and a great place to visit if you get the chance. I designed this simple icon on a blue background and gave it a big red sun.


In the past, Japanese fans often showed your social standing and were made out of washi paper and painted with traditional images from nature. I chose to decorate these fans with iconic Japanese icons such as blossom, maple leaves and birds.


Japanese origami is the art of paper folding and you can create some pretty intricate pieces. The crane is one of the most popular forms to create and a thousand cranes are thought to bring good luck. I didn't quite create a thousand but I did create a pleasing multi colour palette of cranes on a navy blue background.


The iconic torii gates are found at the entrance to shinto shrines and mark the passing from the every day to the sacred. Their fabulous red/orange colour is said to ward off evil spirits and bad luck.


Japanese lucky cats are often found near the entrance to businesses such as shops and restaurants and invite custom and prosperity. The left paw raised brings custom, the right paw raised brings wealth. A gold cat attracts wealth and prosperity whilst a pink cat attracts love and romance.




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