TAKAHASHI TOMOKO ”Ideha Washi Workshop”
ーーProfile
Born in Akita City, Akita
After a change of career from working at a company, she encountered the works of Masaki Kikuchi and was struck by the possibilities of washi paper, and choose to become a washi craftsman.
In 2000 Applied to become an apprentice under Masaki Kikuchi and studied Nishinouchi Washi in Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture for two years. After returning to Akita she began to create numerous handmade washi.
In April 2007, opens “Ideha Washi Workshop”, Yuwa, Akita City.
ーーWhat is Ideha Washi?
Original hand made washi by Tomoko Takahashi. Named after the land, with the intention of “creating works that will have long-lasting roots in the community.
The name “Dewa” is derived from the fact that until the Heian period (794-1185), Dewa was read as “Ideha” dewa-no-kuni (the country of Dewa). The raw materials used are mainly kozo (paper mulberry) from Akita and Thailand, tororo aoi(aibika) from Ibaraki prefecture, and water from Akita’s mountains.
Unconstrained by the philosophy and mold of washi, she creates original works that suit the Akita climate. Creates tapestries, small interiors goods, lamps, works combining pressed flowers and other works associated with Akita.
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ーーAkita Dog Tampo Washi Doll
This cute work features an Akita dog on a Kiritanpo (shortened: Tanpo), an Akita local rice food. All parts of the washi are handmade, bringing out a warm and soft impression.
This hand size handmade washi doll is great for interior.
The wooden part serves as a handle and can also be used as a paperweight.
