Talks, Workshops and Demonstrations

"The best speaker we have ever had - and the group has been going for 20 years!"

Suitable for groups such as Women's Institutes, Embroiderers Guilds, Art/Craft Groups, U3A, Luncheon Clubs, Colleges, Textile Groups, Town/Country Women, Rotary/Inner Wheel, Schools, Museums etc

Kimono - Traditional Costume of Japan

My most popular talk. I dress a mannequin in full ceremonial kimono whilst explaining the history and detail of the costume. Many layers of silk are wrapped, folded and tied to create a stunning outfit. I will also touch on other aspects of Japanese culture and relate some of my own (often amusing) experiences in Japan. There is also the option for a Tea Ceremony afterwards

Seeing Dreams

A talk on my experiences in Japan presented in Powerpoint with lots of photos, anecdotes and objects to handle

O-cha, Japanese Tea Tasting

Powerpoint presentation on the history and production of tea in Japan. Everyone has the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious Japanese teas during the talk. Perhaps you would like to watch a real Tea Ceremony afterwards?

All talks last 45-60 minutes and cost £60 + travel

Chado - Japanese Tea Ceremony

Why not enjoy a Tea Ceremony after your talk? Learn the history of the ancient ritual then watch a demonstration of this rarely performed art

Tea Ceremony £10 (with talk or workshop)

__________________________________________________________________________

Workshops

I try to make workshops affordable for all groups large and small. Each workshop lasts approx. 2 hours and costs £35, plus materials (usually between £2 and £7 per student) and travel. Please call 01748 836633 or email here  to arrange.

Silk Painting

(easy workshop) Learn the basics of this traditional art. Paint spreads when it is applied to silk and this can be used to create dramatic and stunning effects. After becoming acquainted with silk painting, everyone will produce a beautiful greeting card and a suncatcher. Silk painting kits also available in the online shop

Origami

(medium workshop) – learn basic folds and make a variety of objects from handmade ‘washi’ and ‘chiyogami’ paper. Origami paper is also available in the online shop

Fabric Origami also available - make useful items by folding stiffened Japanese cotton and silk.

Shibori Silk Scarf

(medium workshop) – produce and dye a beautiful handkerchief and silk scarf using traditional Japanese shibori techniques

Kimekomi (easy workshop) – a 1,200 year old art form of 'tucking in' fabric to make decorative 'quilted balls' and baubles

Furoshiki - the Art of Gift Wrapping

(easy workshop) – perfect for Christmas, wrap a variety of gifts and objects using wrapping cloths (furoshiki). Make beautiful shapes such as flowers and animals from the cloth, to complement the gift within. The cloth can then be used by the recipient around the home, a perfect example of reusing and recycling! Each student will be given an instruction booklet to take home. Wrapping cloths will be available to purchase if desired.