Chisako Hisamatsu
A NOTE: Chisako returned to Japan in the Spring of 2008. Though we miss her presence very much, we are happy to continue to carry her beautiful work.
"I have always been interested in textiles and making things with my
hands. I grew up in Kochi, in southern Japan, and began weaving in 1998
while living in Hokkaido. Before coming to the United States in the
spring of 1999, I took a basic weaving and dyeing course at the Kawashima
Textile School in Kyoto."
"I enjoy weaving very fine silk. It takes time and concentration, but
gives me great satisfaction. In recent years, I have been experimenting
with undegummed reeled varieties of silk (which retain a protective
layer called silk gum, or sericin). Using partially degummed yarn makes
it possible to weave light, translucent fabric, and yet retain stability,
strength, and body. Light and air are important elements of my work.
Combining fine reeled silk and various spun silk--sometimes overtwisted
yarn--allows me to create a wide variety of textures with a plain weave.
I find simple weaving structures show off the beauty of the high-quality
silk yarn. I am fond of plant and bug dyes such as indigo, madder root
and cochineal, with which I attempt to express my respect for the natural
world. Another reason I choose to use natural materials is simply because
they feel good on one's skin. I am attracted to the concept of functional
weaving. It gives me pleasure to think of my creations being actually
worn--and taking on more character--over the years."
