Committed artists sustain Japan’s ancient tradition of temari craft

Kawaramachi, Japan, offers a glimpse into a timeless tradition that captivates both the mind and the spirit. Women gather in a modest circle, their hands deftly stitching intricate patterns onto temari balls, which are roughly the size of oranges. This craft, known as Sanuki Kagari Temari, has been practiced for over a millennium on the idyllic southwestern island of Shikoku.

Every temari is a unique piece of artistry, adorned with vibrant geometric designs that possess poetic names such as “firefly flowers” and “layered stars.” The creation of a single ball can take weeks or even months, with prices that can reach into the hundreds of dollars. While some may be affordable, the allure of these temari extends far beyond mere decoration.

These beautifully crafted balls serve a deeper purpose; they are not to be tossed around carelessly. Instead, they are treasured heirlooms, embedded with wishes for health and bounty, much like fine art is valued in Western culture.

The essence of temari lies in its enchanting beauty—a blend of impractical elegance and the meticulous labor involved in its creation.

“Out of nothing, something this beautiful is born, bringing joy,” explains Eiko Araki, a master of this ancient craft. “I want people to remember that there are exquisite things in this world that can only be made by hand.”

The region’s soil contributes to the tradition’s roots, providing an ideal environment for cotton cultivation. At Araki’s studio, which doubles as the headquarters for temari preservation, one can find 140 different shades of cotton thread. These include soft pastels and rich hues, all meticulously dyed using natural materials like plants and flowers.

The dyeing process involves a fascinating array of methods, including the use of cochineal, a bug that yields a vivid red color, as well as repeated dyeing techniques to achieve deep indigo tones. By blending yellow and blue, artisans create stunning greens, enhanced with soy juice for richness.

Outside the studio, threads dry in the shade, displaying a spectrum that represents the dedication and skill behind each temari ball.

The crafting process begins with a basic mold made from rice husks enveloped in cotton. Layer after layer of thread is wound around the mold until a solid ball emerges. Following this, the stitching process commences, where precision and concentration are key. The final product is adorned with motifs guided by carefully marked lines, ensuring an exquisite finish.

In recent years, the temari craft has garnered renewed interest among both Japanese citizens and international visitors. Notably, Caroline Kennedy took lessons in this art during her time as the United States ambassador to Japan.

Yoshie Nakamura, who supports Japanese handcrafted arts in her duty-free shop at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, highlights the growing popularity of temari due to their delicate and elaborate designs. “What was once an everyday item is now seen as a beautiful piece for interior decoration,” she states.

Araki is also innovating, introducing designs that blend modern and traditional aesthetics. She is making efforts to integrate temari into daily life, suggesting applications such as ornaments for Christmas trees. A small, affordable version of these balls, priced around 1,500 yen ($10), features a miniature design that can be a charming addition to holiday decorations.

Another of her creative ideas combines pastel-hued temari balls into a cluster that can function as an aromatic diffuser, filled with delightful herbs.

Araki, who is known for her gentle demeanor and contemplative nature, frequently travels to Tokyo to share her expertise but spends much of her time at her studio, which was once an old kindergarten. Originally an artist in metalworking, her path to temari came through her husband’s family, who dedicated themselves to revitalizing this craft during a time when it was at risk of fading away.

The rigorous training process is steeped in tradition; Araki recalls her own upbringing in the art. “My in-laws were very tough, rarely offering praise. It’s a common practice in many Japanese arts that require lifelong dedication,” she reflects.

Currently, only a handful of artisans, all women, possess the skills to create these traditional temari balls. “One of the greatest challenges is to cultivate new talent. Training someone can take over a decade, so we need committed individuals willing to embrace this craft for a long time,” Araki notes.

She believes that as people experience the joy intertwined with the challenges of making temari, they are more likely to persevere in their journey.

Source: AP News