Looking back at the autumn of 2017.
I performed at the very first “Saitama WABI SABI Grand Festival 2017,” held at Omiya Park in Saitama.
Theme: “WA” – Japanese Culture – Tradition x Innovation
This outdoor festival was designed to let visitors see, feel, and enjoy the charm of Saitama’s “Wa” culture, including Bonsai, Tea Ceremony, Ikebana, Traditional Performing Arts, and Food Culture.
The theme of the event, “Tradition x Innovation,” resonated deeply with my own artistic mission.
Wearing a dress featuring traditional Japanese patterns, I performed on the main stage to express this fusion.
“Onko Chishin” (Learning from the Past)
The phrase I chose to write was 「温故知新」 (On-ko Chi-shin).
It means “Learning from the past to discover the new.”
To honor Omiya, known as the sacred place of Bonsai, I painted a dynamic Pine tree and a Moon alongside the calligraphy.
Respecting tradition while creating something new for the future—I poured this spirit into the brushstrokes.
A Cozy Workshop Experience
In addition to the performance, I held a workshop that was a great success.
Participants wrote their favorite characters on postcards to create personalized photo-frame style interior decorations that they could display at home.
The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming (“at-home”), and it was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the process of creating their own art.
Media Coverage
The event and my workshop were later featured on TV Saitama’s news program, helping to spread the charm of calligraphy to a wider audience.
Thank you to everyone who visited!
Yabe Chosho Office
