Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
When it comes to visual communication, the problem for most people is that they begin
to design visuals in a rather arbitrary fashion, without an understanding of the principles
of graphic design. Not surprisingly, this experience is often not rewarding for the
designer or the viewer. Knowing graphic design principles can lead to a more rewarding
experience for everyone concerned.
Learning from Wagasa
After a ten-minute taxi ride from Kyoto station—down a narrow street and across
from the quiet grounds of the Hokyoji Temple—I found myself in one of the last
wagasa shops in all of Japan, and the only one in Kyoto. Wagasa are traditional
Japanese umbrellas made from all-natural materials. The name of the shop is
Hiyoshiya, a family business founded in the late Edo period that's been creating
wagasa for more than 150 years.
Wagasa images on the last page of each chapter courtesy of Mr. Kotaro Nishibori,
Hiyoshiya Co., Ltd. in Kyoto, Japan.
www.wagasa.com
Mr. Kotaro Nishibori, the shop's fifth-generation owner, is a young, award-winning
master craftsman who understands the importance of learning from traditional
Japanese aesthetics and design. “To respect and preserve tradition is more
necessary today than ever before,” says Nishibori-sensei. “Bringing old traditions
and materials into the lives of the next generation is what we can do and that is the
challenge that inspires me and others of my generation.”
The wagasa design illustrates that what is simple is also complex. The process of
creating a Japanese umbrella involves several steps that include the work of
craftspeople who specialize in bamboo, woodwork, washi paper, and final
adjustments. The components are natural—Japanese washi paper, bamboo, wood,
linseed oil, lacquer, persimmon tannin, and tapioca glue — and the entire process
from start to finish involves a few dozen difficult, time-consuming precision craft
processes.
The cover of this topic features a photo from
iStockphoto.com
of two traditional
