This is a detail of a Raden-ori (seashell weaving) obi belt. In a world where life's possibilities are often limited, this work is an ode to the unchanging beauty of Tango's harsh winter sea. A cold winter landscape that shines majestically, a world in black and white.
Length 450 cm
Width 31 cm
Height 0.5 cm
© Tamiya raden
© Tamiya raden
© Tamiya raden
© Tamiya raden
© Tamiya raden
Kyoji Tamiya
- TAMIYA RADEN
- Weaver
- Kyōtango, Japan
- Master Artisan
Contact
Japanese
Address:
312 Miyake, 627-0212 Kyōtango, Japan
312 Miyake, 627-0212 Kyōtango, Japan
Hours:
By appointment only
By appointment only
Phone:
+81 772750978
+81 772750978
© Tamiya raden
Weaving the Sea
- • A combination of traditional techniques creates the unique appearance of Kyoji’s textiles
- • His prefecture has produced silk for over 1,300 years
- • His textiles have appeared in fashion shows overseas
Based in the city of Tango in northern Kyoto Prefecture, the area with the highest production of silk fabric in Japan, Kyoji Tamiya specialises in "Raden-ori" – or seashell weaving. This method was first developed by his father, Katsuichiro, who founded the studio in 1977. Inspired by the mother-of-pearl inlays used to decorate lacquerware, Katsuichiro figured out how to incorporate thinly-shaved abalone shells into textiles using the “hikibaku” weaving technique, which traditionally uses gold or silver leaf pasted onto thin strips of washi paper. Captivated by the iridescent qualities of seashells, Kyoji pursues new forms of expression by applying pigments and incorporating new materials, such as wood, metal and leather.
Read the full interviewWorks
Photo: © Tamiya raden
Winter Sea I
Photo: © Tamiya raden
Universe
This traditional Japanese wedding kimono expressed in raden-ori seashell weaving took two years to create. Under a higher order, the world spins and continues its orbit.
Length 190 cm
Width 128 cm
Height 1 cm
Photo: © Tamiya raden
Surgin Sea
This raden-ori (seashell weaving) obi belt is a homage to the historical Rinpa school of Japanese painting and the great Ukiyo-e master Hokusai. This piece features artful and precise shell work.
Length 450 cm
Width 31 cm
Height 0.5 cm
Photo: © Tamiya raden
Summer Sea I
This raden-ori (seashell weaving) obi belt portrays the clear waters of the sea of Tango in early summer. The reef is visible through the water and the light reflected on the ocean's surface mingles and shine in a rhythmic dance.
Length 450 cm
Width 31 cm
Height 0.5 cm
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