When I was a child, the “tradition” was more strict. Some artisans wouldn’t consider what I do (Sashiko on the Denim) as the authentic Sashiko. Today, it is rare to hear their voice over the Internet. Not only are they old and polite, they only share their “voices” to those who physically visit them for their mastery. They are very kind to us who visit, but not kind enough to make a visit and share. It is rare, and therefore very precious. ☆ On Instagram, I met an eldery lady who shares her insight, “Sashiko Sampler (Hana-Fukin) is not the Sashko.” As you may know, many Japanese enjoy colorful & pictorial patterned Sashiko on the white cloth (dish-towel). She says she doesn’t like it, and they aren’t Sashiko. Many may disagree with her saying “many japanese already enjoy it as''Sashiko”. Her perception is wrong. Sashiko is merely a craft so it should be more free in interpretation.” Some may consider her as a haters, and she leaves negative comments. ☆ Is she wrong? I personally enjoy Sashiko Sampler. So, I am not standing on the same side with her. However, I feel the strong need to listen to her. It is easy to say “This is reality.” and ignore the haters/negative comments. However, is it the real voice that we unintentionally & already re-painted? In fact, the number of artisans who raised me was like her. The internet changed the way we communicate. We used to respect eldery much more - regardless if they are right or wrong, their wisdom was valuable. Here, the same thing. Many are looking for the knowledge of “how to”. However, the core of Sashiko can be passed down by learning wisdom. It is another important part of my job to listen & introduce those “silent voices”. ☆ - - - ☆ ここ数日、思うことが重なったので、久々にブログにしてみるつもりです。@sashiko_dad で概要を紹介しつつ、長文になるだろうブログもそこで一緒に紹介できればと思っています。 ☆ 2012年。刺し子の未来を憂いていた時に頂いた言葉。「淳が必要なのは、刺し子への覚悟だけ」。覚悟が決まると未来を憂う余裕すらなくなるんですね（笑）。 ☆ #Sashiko #UpcycleStitches #SashikoStitching #JapaneseSashiko #SashikoSampler #TraditionalSashiko #刺し子 #刺し子ふきん #日本人の刺し子 https://www.instagram.com/p/CEAKkHZhchd/?igshid=1olonkbj7n0i0
