The Gokōbashi Bridge spans the Sewaritei district of Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture. This area is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, and it is also home to the Sakura Deai Museum, where my work is exhibited. On New Year’s Day, many people gather here to watch the first sunrise of the year.
This work expresses the scene of New Year’s Day at Gokōbashi Bridge through photo embroidery. The golden sky and river, and the people quietly gazing at the light. Moved by its beauty, I wanted to record it through embroidery.
The Sakura Deai Kan website is here.
Artistic Focus
- The contrast between the figures bathed in the strong light of the morning sun and those in shadow
- The layering of embroidery threads to express the layers of air and the spread of light
- A sense of presence as if you were there and a recreation of the time of prayer
Background of the Creation
I actually learned that Gokōbashi Bridge was a popular spot for watching the first sunrise of the year on New Year’s Day 2022. I came expecting snow based on the weather forecast. However, the snow I had hoped for did not accumulate much. Nevertheless, a few people were trying to take photos from the bridge. At that moment, I realized that this place was a sunrise-viewing spot. However, that year was cloudy, with little snowfall. Therefore, I tried again on New Year’s Day the following year, and this work was completed.
Theme of the Work
Expressing light with thread
— I depict the color of the air created by light and the quiet passion of people through embroidery.