Yurameki Healing Light | 嵐山の水
Jingwen Gu’s artisanal lamp became a source of hope for Yusai-sensei, a master dyer, as he undergoes chemotherapy
At the heart of Arashiyama is Yusai-sensei’s dyeing workshop, Yusai-Tei, where he rediscovered the art of Yume Korozome, a color changing dye, born from the water of Arashiyama.
This water, renowned for its purity and unique mineral composition, is not only the foundation of his craft but also the soul of Kyoto’s artistry. It drives every aspect of the city’s craftsmanship, from the vibrant hues of Yume Korozome to the delicate flavors of kaiseki cuisine.
Jingwen’s design draws inspiration from the essence of Kyoto’s water
“I want to share the natural dyes with people around the world, offering them the essence of Japan’s dyeing tradition. I believe these dyes convey a profound sense of gentleness, which could inspire harmony and contribute to world peace. ”
Jingwen’s artisanal lamp, Yurameki, captures this harmony through the gentle sway of the light and form to reflect the ripple of water as a life-giving force
During her time at Yusai-Tei, she was inspired by the gentle ripple patterns in the water used in his dyeing process. These ripples, created by the motion of water as it interacts with fabric and dye, became a metaphor for the interconnectedness of nature, craft, and life itself.
This collaboration beautifully demonstrates the enduring relationship between Kyoto’s craftsmanship and Jingwen’s artistry. What began as a spark of inspiration four months ago has now blossomed into a breathtaking collection of artisanal lamps, exhibited within the very space that inspired its creation.
Yusai-Tei, the historic workshop where author Yasunari Kawabata wrote his renowned novel, “The Sound of the Mountain”
Jingwen’s time in Yusai-Tei not only deepened her understanding of Yusai-sensei’s craft but also allowed her to channel its essence into an artisanal lamp that speaks to the timelessness of Kyoto’s water and light.
This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring legacy of craftsmanship, reminding us all of the healing and hope that art can bring to those who create it—and those who experience it.
Healing Light was made possible through the Pacific Rim Project, an exchange program jointly supported by ArtCenter College of Design in California and Tama Art University in Tokyo
We are honored to share this journey on behalf of Jingwen and the many hands that brought this vision to life. Special thanks go to Jeremy Chiu, a visiting photographer from Oakland, California, whose sensitive and stunning photography captured the natural beauty of Yusai-Tei.
We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Emi-san, Haruji-san, Okuda-sensei, and the dedicated staff at the Yusai-Tei for the inspiration and craftsmanship.
For more information on Arashiyama Yusai-Tei, visit Yusai-Tei Gallery website.
For more information on The Healing Light Project, visit Pacific Rim Project website.
For more information on Yurameki, visit Jingwen Gu’s Official website.
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