Remember this post about my favorite embroiderer Junko Oki and my efforts to get my hands on one of her books? Well, I finally succeeded and yesterday received a copy of her wonderful book ‘poesy’.
It features her beautiful embroidery, bags, clothes and simple cloths, some of which are photographed in the context of a room or the outdoors to highlight their beauty. The book came with an introduction written in English where she explains her dreams of becoming a poet.
This is clearly what she is: a poet armed with needle and thread.
In her own words:
” When I have needles, threads, and other special materials in front of me, something stirs deep inside my unconscious mind in spite of myself and I am filled with strong emotion. That is when I regain my true self.”
Here are a few impressions from her book:
It was hard to chose which pictures to feature, as something always gets lost in translation.
But here is the good news: if you would like to purchase the book, you can and it is easy and fast: The price is 2000yen plus postage.
Contact Junko Oki at: mmtukj(at)nifty.com and she’ll send you an invoice through paypal. As soon as you pay, it’ll be on its way and 3-5 days later you’ll hold it in your hands. If you order one, please say hello from me!
Junko Oki is a wonderful source of inspiration and thank you Momo (her sister) for helping with the translations.
….poesy – another day another walk
Really lovely. Thank you for posting the work of obscure artists.
I have imposed a moratorium on new Art books for now. I am becoming overwhelmed instead of inspired. Still looking for a free moment to use my Alabama Chanin stencils.
Tilleke Schwarz is another embroiderer whose work will make the heart beat faster. In person her works are out of this world. Thanks for introducing Junko Oki.
http://www.tillekeschwarz.com/gallery/cats/7.html
So glad to hear you were able to connect! And thrilled to know we can hold her book in our hands soon. Thanks for the followup!
The book looks wonderful! I too am a fan of Tilleke Schwarz. I have a beautiful book of her work that I purchased directly from her a few years ago. Another amazing stitcher is Anna Torma (annatorma.com)
Thank you all for your suggestions. I’m always excited when I discover new embroidery/fiber artists. Isn’t it something so simple like needle and thread can make your heart beat faster? Well said Karen! Have a nice weekend all of you.
I hadn’t come across Junko’s wonderful work before so thank you! I hope to hold her book in my hand too.
Hi, Kathrin
I got emails in your favor, that want a “poesy” from some people.
It is exciting that my book has been on a journey travel to Colorado ,Texas, New York, Tuscany, Victoria..
Thank you so much!
How wonderful, I’m so happy for you!
Wow…. her work is amazing. Thank you for the introduction. How does one buy her book? I cant find it online anywhere. Thank you.
Hi Sandy, there is no preview or online store that sells her book. Just send her an email at mmtukj(at)nifty.com (replace (a) with @ and tell her you would like to purchase “poesy”. She’ll send you a paypal invoice and after you pay, the book is on its way.