(Photo
courtesy of Melisa Akai)
|
Bunka Embroidery or more properly called Bunka Shishu is Japanese
embroidery art. Bunka Shishu translates to "Painting with Thread
and Needles". The finished effect is one of a painting, the thread
providing the texture and the colors and workmanship providing the
depth. The thread is of a stretchy nature such that it stays in without
knotting when punched through a special fabric.
Bunka Embroidery is punch embroidery that originated in Japan in the
early 1900's. Burlap and carpet yarn were initially employed, and
these materials were eventually replaced with cotton fabric and rayon
thread.
Melisa Akai has been practicing the art of Bunka Embroidery for more
than 21 years, and an instructor for the past 12 years. She learned
this art form from her mother, an instructor of Bunka Embroidery for
25 years. |