According to tradition, students of Japanese embroidery must watch a master at work and 'steal the knowledge'. Here, Julia shares her passion for this exquisite craft, revealing her in-depth knowledge of the skills and symbolism involved. Detailed instructions reveal the intricacies of working with silk thread and silk fabric, and clear step-by-step photographs show how to create beautiful embroideries inspired by the four seasons.
About Julia D. Gray
Julia D. Gray's passion for traditional Japanese embroidery was kindled by her interest in Art Nouveau (which was influenced by Japanese design) and further fuelled by the Great Japan Exhibition in London in 1981. She has studied for nine years with Kurenai-kai, graduating at their centre in Atlanta, Georgia, USA in 1995. Julia researches thoroughly, travelling extensively in Japan to study embroidery and allied traditional crafts including sumi-e (ink painting), yuzen (silk painting), shibori (dyeing) and katazome (stencilling). She gives illustrated talks showing her collection of Japanese antique textiles and artefacts and demonstates at exhibitions throughout Britain. When not working, Julia enjoys photography, gardening and running her smallholding, all of which bring her close to nature - the inspiration for her work.
