Japan Trip Part 2

SAORI 40th year anniversary was on Nov. 8 and 9 in Osaka.

I went back to Japan the end of October to spend some time with my family and friends in my hometown.

Then, from Nov. 6 to 12, I stayed in Osaka.

The main event was for two days, but after that we had SAORI International workshop/symposium for two days.

First night, I stayed one of my SAORI friends Kyoko's. (Picture: her studio and a guest room)

On that day, I visited SAORI Osaka where I took classes and used to work.

I actually worked there getting ready for translating a guest's speech.

I also visited a facility You House with Kyoko and met good SAORI friends of mine there.

I always stay Kyoko's guest room/studio at least one time when I visit Japan. Thank you, Kyoko-san.

She came to MN twice, too. She was looking forward to seeing some of U.S. SAORI friends who were a part of this big event. She met them in MN when Dan and I hosted SAORI U.S.-Canada Conference in 2008.

Here are some fashion show images.

The image in the center is the opening fashion show.

Misao Jo is weaving and fairies are dancing around her with SAORI banners.

I remember I had tears in my eys. What a impressive opening it was!

The other fashion show was like "adult-like""high-end" fashion show.

They all inspired me. It reminded me how much we can do on a SAORI loom!

To be continued.....

I went to Japan!

Wow! It has been a while since I posted my blog last time.

There were a lot of things I had to do before I left for Japan the end of October.

Yes, I went back to Japan to be a part of SAORI 40th year anniversary.

Of course, I also went to see my family there.

It was much warmer than usual in Osaka.

When I came back to Minnesota on Nov. 13, I was ready to be in cold, but it wasn't cold at all.

I was surprised and of course, I was so glad it was not cold.

Anyway, I had such a good time in Japan.

About 1000 people from all over Japan got together to celebrate this big event.

Also 26 people from 11 different countries got together.

It was so nice to see all the SAORI friends!

I kept screaming whenever I saw some faces I've known, but haven't seen them for 6 years!

It was exciting.

It was exciting to share the moment together.

It was exciting to see their SAORI pieces they were wearing.

It was exciting to see Misao Jo the founder of SAORI were there with us.

She is 96 years old!!

Fashion show, A key speaker's speech, another fashion show, forum...

Oh, I was one of the forums on "SAORI's Future" .

There were 4 of us on the stage talked about SAORI's future.

I also helped translating a speech from a delegate from VSA arts head quarters in Washington D.C.

It was such a good experience for me to be on the stage especially the venue was "Osaka Public Hall" the historical building. (picture)

To be continued.....