Office Miyabie
In Japan, white paper has long been regarded as a medium that connects to the divine. For centuries, washi has been used in sacred rituals offered to the gods and Buddhas, as well as in everyday life.
This auspicious white ornament is crafted from Echizen Nama-suki Hōsho paper, made by Ichibē Iwano, a holder of the Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. Drawing inspiration from a variety of traditional Japanese auspicious motifs, the piece proposes forms of happiness that resonate with contemporary living. Please enjoy it together with the exquisitely crafted artistic washi used as the background.
Through many years of work at a research institution in Fukui Prefecture, the artist has been deeply involved in supporting local manufacturing industries. During this time, they developed extensive knowledge and interest in the materials and techniques of traditional crafts such as Echizen washi and lacquerware.
The artist has mastered various paper-craft and processing techniques, including paper quilling—a decorative method said to have originated in Europe, in which paper is rolled and shaped. Rather than using Western paper, the artist is committed to creating works exclusively with Echizen washi.
An encounter with the family of Ichibē Iwano, a Living National Treasure, led the artist to begin creating works using leftover sheets of Echizen Nama-suki Hōsho paper, while also deepening relationships with skilled artisans in the production region.
Today, in collaboration with institutions such as the Echizen Washi Village, the artist is engaged in exhibition planning, product development, and other activities aimed at communicating and strengthening the identity of the regional craft brand.
Echizen washi is produced primarily in and around the Echizen Washi Village in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, a region with a history spanning more than 1,500 years.
The area is home to rare shrines dedicated to the deities of paper—Okamoto Shrine and Otaki Shrine—both designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Numerous artisans in the region produce a wide variety of washi papers, and in terms of quality, diversity, and production volume, Echizen washi ranks among the finest in Japan.
Biography
Born in Fukui Prefecture, Japan.
The artist spent many years working at a research institution in Fukui, supporting local manufacturing industries and developing deep expertise in traditional crafts such as Echizen washi and lacquerware. After acquiring techniques in paper crafts and processing—including paper quilling—the artist began creating works exclusively using Echizen washi, without employing Western paper.
Awards
• 2024 Japan Traditional Culture Grand Prix – Runner-up (Second Prize)
• 2021 AJC Creators Collection – Honorable Mention
• 2020 4×6 Compact Art Competition – Selected
• 2020 Aroma & Herb Craft Contest – Grand Prix