A little late in posting, since it's already mid-month, but here's my Mar tokyo trend report: retro sweet tooth. Simple childhood memories are making retro school meal items desirable again. Koppepan, plain bread rolls, with various fillings is one of them--especially sweet ones with customizable options!
Am Yours, So Be Mine
Am yours, so be mine! Happy Valentines'!!
bubbles - of dreams, time & space
Speaking of bubbles, am using the painting of it as my temporary image for my upcoming exhibition at Jalk Coffee in Nishi Eifuku (www.jalkcoffee.com)--one of my favourite spaces & cafes here in Tokyo. We just decided on the date and I wanted everyone to know: Sun May 1 to Sun May 29 2016! After my last show in Sep 2014, I promised myself to take one year break before doing another one.
The title & theme is "of dreams, time & space" and though my bubbles series will not be a major part of this show, felt that this image will set the mood. The paintings I will be doing for this will be mainly of the time Lala spends inside a cafe, and I hope to share her feelings, experiences, and thoughts with everyone. Thank you and am looking forward to seeing you all there soon!
--Jodi
love energy & flow II
While on my quest of finding things to "embody" my love energy & flow mantra, I went to Etsy looking for items that would do just that. One of them was a pair of Sugilite (a beautiful purple stone) earrings, which after lots of searching, failed to click with me. So, I decided to make my own and ended up meeting Lari & John of Movingrock, who offer some of the amazing hand-cut loose stones I have ever seen.
Lari & John is a wonderful couple with over 30 years of experience as a jeweller (Lari) and a lapidary--a artisan gemstone cutter (John). Unfortunately, their home-workshop was burnt to the ground in 2013, and Lari can no longer make jewellery, which I have seen pictures of and are impressively beautiful.
After hearing their story, I ended up purchasing a pair of Sugilite stones, and 3 loose cabochons--1 Moonstone with Purple schiller (sheen), 1 Moonstone with Pink schiller, and 1 Lavender Quartz. The schillers of the Moonstones are hard to tell from the pictures, but they are amazing in person. The Lavender Quartz (the biggest stone and on the left) is really wonderful, not only because of its warm purple colour with a touch of golden glow within and a star that shows itself when light shines on it, but the story behind the original rough stone as well. Here it is in her own words:
"I made jewelry for over 25 years - all fabricated, silver and 18k. I lived and breathed to make jewelry and dreamed I was working as I slept, then I would get up and make what I designed in my dream. (After the fire) we couldn't afford to replace mine (workshop). We had to replace John's - our livelihood depended on it. This is our sole income - we are in our 60's and after our home and shops burned, we had to start all over. Not what we had in mind ;~), but life gives you what it does.
The lavender quartz, John and I mined ourselves probably 20 years ago. The site can no longer be accessed as all the old logging roads have been moved, or more often removed altogether......
As luck would have it, I had moved a box of stones over to what was my brother's house (now ours) we were care-taking it for him, and I worked here and had my photo booth set up. We didn't have high speed internet at our old house. It burned to the ground along with our shops in July 2013. We lost everything but the box of stones I had moved. And the lavender quartz survived the fire as it was buried in a flower bed in coffee cans!"
Their story was so inspirational and encouraging that I had to share it with everyone. Please do check out their items--they are really lovely, and Lari & John is one of the nicest couples I have ever met! It's a blessing being to wear their stones:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/movingrock
Now about the ring, I once again asked Youzan & his team to set the amazing stones into a pinky ring. I never thought that I would wear, let along request a customization of, a pinky ring, but it felt like the right finger to wear Lari & John's stones. The 3 stones were set into a branch-like band of gold vermeil to match the other rings I have from Youzan. When I first saw the finished ring, which was so gorgeous--the detail, the comfort of the fit, the balance of the setting, that I couldn't stop praising them for the excellent job they had done!
It looks like am wearing the bubbles I painted recently on my fingers--hence the second last picture. Thank you very much for making my dream bubble, 3-stoned "love energy & flow" ring into a reality! Again, here is the link to their store:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/youzan
The last picture is of the Sugilite earrings which is something I put together with 10K gold wires and beads. Am really happy with the results, and both Lari & John and Youzan & team agree too! Hahaha......here's to love energy & flow!!
Keeping Warm - Haramaki & Bunny Slippers
For my Feb tokyo trend report: waist warmers--haramaki. I personal wear one at home, and a thinner, black cotton one under my winter clothes when am out. Am also posting some work-in-progress photos as well! Enjoy and stay warm everyone!!
love energy & flow - flow
Part III is FLOW. If something is broken are the flow will be disrupted. This goes for time, things, the body, and mind.
There were several things in my possession that needed fixing, and did just that before then end of last year. The place I went to is actually where most would buy things from, not repair things at. However, Tokyu Hands Shibuya has repair shops for jewellery, watches and more.
Took my much loved broken earrings, necklace, and watch for repairs. And they have done more than a fine job! The repair staff there are not regular shop staff, but experts with years of experience in their craft. Due to my, again, crazy requests and funny way of speaking Japanese, I actually came to know a couple of them. I went by Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, to say hi and drop off my belated Christmas postcard to their Jewellery Repair staff who have helped me out lots. They were kind enough that they even displayed it inside one of their showcases--see the picture below. Was so happy they did that for what I call, a random, demanding customer!
Could not be happier--to start off the New Year, I finally got the watch that dad got me (the one in front) for my grad year fixed. It gave way 2 years ago, and instead of paying the $100+ to repair it at the time, paid $300+ for a new one (right, yes the same brand too!).
Both are relatively inexpensive watches, but they have been through thick and thin with me. In the consumerist, disposable world we live in today, fixing and cherishing old items is ever more important. Am grateful that it's on my wrist running again, and I got my flow back. Thanks dad and to the staff at Tokyu Hands Shibuya's Jewellery Repair (on 5C) and Watch Repair (5B) departments! And isn't 2016 already looking great?
love energy & flow - energy
Part II of my "love energy & flow" posts, of course is ENERGY. I believe most things have energy, and many give off great amounts of it. Since skincare is something that I have to say, is the closest to the skin, its energy is very important to me.
A friend of mine introduced me to "BARAKA" a Japanese cosmetics brand that was inspired by the Beauty of the Queens. The concept sounded far fetched at first, but reading more about it, I realized it was sincere in its idea and product lineup. At the center of their products is the almost ancient ingredients which queens, say Cleopatra, used for their own beauty routines. These ingredients such as lotus, frankincense, and Dead Sea salts were and still are prized for their effectiveness in nourishing the skin and soul.
Tried everything they had and though I love them all, I particularly like their "Lotus Water Mist". So, will share my thoughts with you here. Every time after I wash my face or finishing taking a bath/shower, I immediately spray the Lotus Water Mist on my face. Its soft scent and moisturizing effect is heavenly. I feel like am surrounded by a mist of gentle, positive, nurturing energy.
The main ingredient is Lotus Water--yes, you heard me right. Apparently, BARAKA used state-of-the-art cosmetics technology to extract this water. Saw the stats: it was so scientific that am skipping it here. But it is amazing how they do it. Knowing how much I am attracted to lotus flowers, it is hard not to like this. As mentioned previously, the lotus flower is known for symbolizing purity, beauty, enlightenment, and rebirth. It is also known for its healing properties and energy. They have another product too that is comprised on this rare ingredient, "Lotus Waterdrop Cream" which too is worth trying out.
BARAKA is unfortunately only available in Japan right now, and their website is all in Japanese. However, I heard that this may change, and soon too, as they are getting ready for an international launch. Whatever the case, am very fortunate to have discovered this energizing brand!
baraka-style.com
*Update as of March 2018, they have turned their focus on their Body Care Line instead, which also amazing*
love energy & flow - love
"love energy & flow" came to me one night late last year while laying in bed. Made it my mantra for 2016. Cause I am a very tangible person, who loves to feel with my senses, am going to write about physical things I relate with my theme of the year. This is will be a 3 part blog due to its long length, am also going to post Part I (this post) last so that it shows up first, followed by the Part II & III on my blog.
LOVE
I believe if I surround myself with happy people, I would be happy too. This applies to love--truly think if I am around things made with love, would feel their/makers' love as well. Hence am always drawn to handmade items, of course, especially homemade food. But since I blog non-stop about food already, will make it about something else.
For years, I have been known to wear black with lots and lots of simple, big silver jewellery. I really mean lots and big. Something changed last autumn, and so decided to switch things up. Since then, have been searching for things made with rose gold or silver, with touches of gold or with stones--not really sparkly diamonds or gems, but something with colour to brighten up myself.
The result was me finding creators on Etsy who were willing to listen and answer my crazy requests to make items I know I would cherish for years. After numerous messages, photos, and etc., then me waiting for them to be lovingly crafted, shipped, and finally making their way to me, here they are! Yes, the vanity of the fashion stylist inside me never died! And please don't think I spend money like crazy or do this often. The items were reasonable, since I did my bargain hunting, and it was for a special reason. Consider it as one big Christmas present to myself to mark a new outlook and fresh start!
First up, a brilliant Blue Tourmaline Rose Gold Pendent Necklace by Rebekah of Boss Studio Jewelry created at my request. Rebekah had to run around to look for "the right" stone for me, literally. This particular little beauty stood out from the rest, and in her words, had more "personality...there's something about it as it just sort of jumped out at me from amongst the rest of the tourmalines that surrounded it!". It really does sparkle like no other. With all honestly, the picture does not do the actual necklace justice! And corresponding with Rebekah was a real joy. Her messages were full of thought, understanding, and love that brought a smile to my face every time. Am lucky to be wearing her creation while writing this post.
www.etsy.com/shop/BossStudiosJewelry
Next to it, is the Lotus Rose Gold Pendent by Teri of Teri Lee Jewelry. I was looking for pendent with a lotus flower, because it is one of the flowers my dad had specifically asked me to paint when I was a child, learning traditional Chinese watercolour painting. It is also the flower featured in the painting that Chicago Children's Museum acquired from me years ago. Lotus flower is known for symbolizing purity, beauty, enlightenment, and rebirth--the perfect flower to reflect my own transformation while retaining my roots.
After lots of searching, I found this one, and asked to have it made in rose gold instead. And she did, beautifully! I just love how tactile the piece is. It is made with the "lost wax" method, which gives it its special characteristics.
Next, a trio of delicate yet strong, Branch Stacking Rings made by Youzan, and his team of real craftsman/woman jewellers right here in Tokyo. Youzan Yamamori is a traditionally trained jeweler and so are his pupils. Everything they make is inspired by nature, and fittingly so.
Came across their Pink Tourmaline and Carved Nephrite rings, love them so much, that personally requested an additional custom order for a slightly larger, round cabochon Rose Quartz one. Each was make with such care and detail. Youzan was also very helpful, cause despite my long emails in English, which of course is not their native language, everything turned out perfect. The rings remind me of the beautiful sakura blooming in spring, and warm my heart up. They have received many c0mpliments ever since I started wearing them.
And last but not least, the creator of the rings featured at the top of the post and shown here again, Annie of April & June Jewelry. Her Personalize Rings (Pink Amethyst & Rose Quartz here) are just that--personalized to the T. In person, the rings are softer and much prettier. She too had to search for a rose cut quartz stone for me during the busy holiday season, so that I can have the rings for the New Year. Wonderfully made and hand stamped, which I personally like more than engraving, is "love" and "energy & flow".
www.etsy.com/shop/aprilandjune
You can really feel the love that was put into the making of each of these unique pieces, where no two are alike. They contain the feelings of their makers, and as the owner of them, I cannot be more grateful, happier, and proud.
Thank you Rebekah, Teri, Youzan & his team, and Annie! Now, this is also a good motivation to work harder to make up for all the money I spent! Hahaha......
Happy 2016!
Happy New Year everyone!! Well, it is the year of the monkey--staying warm at an onsen, hot spring!! Ah, how I want to escape to one right now......
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays everyone!! Wishing you all a very Fa "Lala" la la la la la la holiday season full of joy, love, laughs and great food! May 2016 be the best year yet!!
Talent & Food - Esquisse Tokyo
It was a very special celebration of friendships new & old, dedication to one's craft--here, a culinary one, and of fate. As you may know, Japan has some of the world's best French restaurants, due to the amazingly fresh local produce, great skills of chefs, and the delicate balance of the Japanese style and palette.
I met the very young and talented Ryoma Shida a few years ago, and am very proud of his achievements! Having trained in Paris and Tokyo, won first place in the national competition, and represented Japan in the international one in Italy, he prepared a special dish just for us when we visited him at the Michelin two star Esquisse Tokyo, where he is now working hard as a chef. the picture does not do it justice, but it is a broccoli stem ravioli topped with white truffles--elegant, refined, while packing a punch (first pic).
The other photos are of the main dish, and the main dessert (just for your information, a pre-dessert and petite fours are included in the course--and I didn't take photos of everything, cause was busy eating and chatting)!
From the bread, to the garnishes, and main feature, not a detail was missed! a big thank you to Ryoma, Chef Lionel Beccat, and everyone at Esquisse for making our lives this much more enjoyable!
It was definitely one of the best meals in our lives! After having the mind blowing dishes, I got the positive energy to work harder on my own illustrations, writing, and projects! Am truly a happy & grateful one!
Yummy Japan
For all the international foodies out there, please check out this new portal site, Yummy Japan. Though it is "Japan", there are contents created by foodie & cultural Youtubers from all around! The image is of pasta, but trust me, there info from sushi, ramen, izakaya, and way more!!
www.yummyjapan.net/
Kakigori - Natural Ice
For my Oct tokyo trend report: traditional Japanese desserts are making a major comeback--kakigori is now highly sought after as the new "chic" & "luxurious" sweet and not only in the summer, but all year round. Simple is best, these premium kakigori made from natural ice can easily cost 1000 yen or more! Shown here: matcha & strawberry flavour.
***Natural ice is ice made in the great outdoors, with ponds of water frozen by nature, and handled by dedicated craftsmen. No freezers are used in the ice making process. There are only 5 of such traditional ice-makers (companies) left in Japan***
And here is a picture of the real ones I ordered, though both were of matcha flavour. Lucky to have tried 2 of the 5 ice made by the rare natural ice-makers! The ice really is different, and melts in your mouth like soft, fluffy snow!
Polka Dots & Bubbles
Although am amidst a very important project, I still got distracted after doing an experimental painting for a friend (see below). After finishing the first one, these little colourful polka dots, or bubbles, wouldn't stop floating about in my head. The result: a polka dot series that was inspired by nature and the seasons.
Spring (top image): pastels from cherry blossoms, showers, and water drops
Summer: intense vibrant colours from everywhere
Autumn: rich golds, reds, and browns of fall leaves
Winter: cool yet healing effects of rain and snow--water (yes, am from Vancouver! The rainy city of Canada)
These five paintings were done without my signature ink blotted lines. Hence, there is an airiness to them that is very different from the ones I have done prior. Now that I got all of these images/feelings down on paper, I can finally get back to work!
The Best Surprise
The Best Surprise: When your best friend's sister & her baby girl receive a gift from someone you personally don't know that has a card with your illustrations on it, and you unexpectedly get photos of them sent to your phone!
Yes, she got a beautiful diaper cake from handmade by the wonderful Seiko Tsuchimoto and staff: baby-shower.jp
Process & Progress
Am in the process of writing a new book, a project that has taken up much of my creative time. Hence, many of my recent blog posts are about things other than my illustrations. Am posting a few work in progress pictures of my summer "tokyo trend" report--fashion inspired by the French Riviera.