Mika Horie
Air, Flowers and Colors (Signed)
Published by Ibasho and The(M) éditions, 2024
Size: 24 x 17 cm
124 Pages
Limited Edition of 300 copies.
Each copy has its unique cyanotype cover.
Air, Flowers and Colours is Mika Horie's second artist's book, co-published by IBASHO and the(M) éditions.
For this book, Mika Horie delved into nearly forgotten traditions such as kimono making, the tea ceremony, and even duck hunting. Particularly fascinated by the intricate beauty of the obi and the entire kimono-making process, she met with artisans specializing in silk thread and obi making. For two months, she raised silkworms to better understand the silk production process. During this time, she also discovered the enchanting world of wildflowers and native plants during her weekly tea ceremony practice. Her tea instructors shared profound Zen wisdom while discussing seasonal tea room decorations, revealing the deeper meaning and beauty of each arrangement. These teachings enriched her creativity, inspiring new ideas and images that she was eager to explore.
Throughout this journey, she immersed herself in the rich and complex facets of Japanese culture, uncovering unexplored aspects of the island's history. She hopes her latest book, "Air, Flowers, and Colors," will give readers insight into her deep connection to her identity and ancestral heritage.
Each copy of the book is different, as it features its own cyanotype print of a poetic landscape on handmade paper, making each book a unique experience. Inside, the perception of the original is ensured by the artistic photography that makes it look almost like the original, and reinforced by the choice of ink and paper. The rough edges of the book emphasize the character of the handmade paper and its softness.