Part 2 of the interview with "Yokoburi" embroidery artisan Kozue Ishizaka and designer Yoshikuni Inoue
Continuing from last time, we explore how Ms. Ishizaka's embroidery philosophy and Mr. Inoue's design approach shaped this unique project.
Click here for Part 1
─ ─ What is the moment when you concentrate the most when embroidering?
Ishizaka: I'm always concentrating because if I lose focus, I might sew my finger or make a mistake. I don't like pain, and I don't like having to unravel threads and re-sew.
Inoue: Ms. Ishizaka's concentration and professionalism are key to the success of our collaboration. I am impressed by her dedication.
─ ─ How does Ms. Ishizaka's technique bring uniqueness to the Yoshikuni collaboration Sukajan?
Ishizaka: Honestly, I don't really show my individuality. Mr. Inoue's work is wonderful, so I tried my best to get closer to his ideal.
Inoue: I am deeply grateful that Ms. Ishizaka respects my vision and strives to realize it. I believe that her rendering, which brings out the graphic, elevated this graphic to the next level.
─ ─ Is there any embroidery tradition that Ms. Ishizaka has preserved in this collaboration?
Ishizaka: It's not exactly a tradition, but the sewing machine I use is 70 years old. There are no replacement parts for the screws or springs, so I want to continue to cherish it by oiling it with gratitude and respect.
Inoue: The fact that Ms. Ishizaka continues to carefully use an old sewing machine is also significant for our collaboration. That sewing machine is not just a tool; it symbolizes Ms. Ishizaka's skill and tradition. When my design merges with the embroidery produced by such a historic sewing machine, the work will gain even deeper story and soul. Ms. Ishizaka's respect for her technique and tradition is a very important element for our work.
─ ─ What is Ms. Ishizaka's philosophy on embroidery that she wants to convey to the next generation of artisans?
Ishizaka: Embroidery will definitely be completed if you keep sewing! While completing it is wonderful, sometimes I don't want to finish it because the process itself is so much fun for me.
Inoue: Ms. Ishizaka's philosophy truly captures the essence of the creative process. Finding joy in the process of creating a work itself and valuing it more than the finished product is a very important concept for us designers too. I thought that artisans like Ms. Ishizaka conveying such ideas to the next generation would foster their creativity and enrich the future of art.
From the dialogue between Ms. Ishizaka and Mr. Inoue, a deep respect for each other's skills and creativity was evident.
It became clear that the fusion of Ms. Ishizaka's traditional embroidery techniques and Mr. Inoue's innovative designs imbues the Yoshikuni collaboration Sukajan with a unique charm.
This collaboration can be said to be a splendid example of an artwork where past and present, tradition and innovation coexist.