Mother-of-pearl Weaving Studio tour
Expert: Tamiya-san from Tamiya Raden
Why mother-of-pearl weaving?
The art of weaving mother-of-pearl shell into kimono fabric to create arresting pieces of art is such an intricate and labor-intensive process, it’s amazing that someone even thought of it. This is a form of weaving, a fusion of silk and shell that needs to be seen in person to truly grasp. Pictures don’t convey the luster, weight, intricacies, or the way the iridescent colors change in different light. This is expertise and artistry in it’s highest form, and sought after by the world’s top designers.
Why mother-of-pearl weaving in Kyoto by the Sea?
Over a thousand years of weaving silk, 300 years of weaving the highest quality Tango Chirimen textured silk, and an innovative artisan that saw the technicolored shells along the shore of the Sea of Japan and had the inspiration to find a way to weave them through the silk. Kyoto by the Sea’s Tango Peninsula has the perfect climate for silk production, and the shoreline to provide inspiration for weavers looking to innovate. It is because of this area’s weaving history and prowess that artisans are able to follow their creative inclinations, and not only make a living off of weaving as their ancestors have, but to create something completely new from these traditions. During this tour through Tamiya Raden’s workshop with Tamiya himself, visitors will get to see the entire process of weaving mother-of-pearl into the silk, try their hand at part of the process for themselves, and even get to visit Tamiya’s private gallery with private exhibits worthy of the world’s top fine arts museums. The gallery also has an annex with some items that are available for public purchase.
about our weaver
Tamiya Raden is in a class of its own creating works of art with every piece they finish. It is a family business in a seaside community on the Tango Peninsula, but this small company has collaborated with the world’s top designers for some truly one-of-a-kind creations. Tamiya’s work has been featured during Paris Fashion Week as well as other top global fashion shows. Collaborations include the watch maker Harry Winston and the sound company, Bang Olufsen. The small workshop and gallery even received a visit from the former Empress of Japan, who owns Tamiya Raden kimono obi. She even wore it on her birthday.
Where is this experience?
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