Cross Cultural Series

Woven Cultures - Bamboo weaver Chiemi Ogura and
Willow weaver Joshua Yazzie

As part of JFLA's new project, the Cross Cultural Series, we are excited to present the first edition—a collaboration between bamboo craft artist Chiemi Ogura from Kyoto, Japan and basket weaver Joshua Yazzie from Gila River Indian Community.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Friday March 21st kicks off Ogura and Yazzie's collaboration at the Arizona State University (ASU). Moderated by ASU Assistant Teaching Professor Xavier Nokes, Ogura and Yazzie will explore the materials, tradition and indiviuality, and the future of creation through panel discussion.

On Saturday March 22nd and Sunday 23rd, Ogura and Yazzie will talk and demonstrate at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix as part of their annual Haru in the Garden: A Celebration of Sake & Art event. They will discuss similarities and  differences in their weaving techniques and will demonstrate each of their weaving technique side by side. Ogura will also host a special workshop to create chopstick rests with bamboo. collaborating through talk, demonstration, and workshop .

On Tuesday March 25th, we will move to Los Angeles, where we will host a recap presentation of the three-day event in Phoenix. We will present photos and videos of Ogura and Yazzie's collaborations at Phoenix, and  Ogura will give lecture on Japanese traditional bamboo craft art along with a demonstration and a pop-up exhibition.

Come witness the fascinating exchange between Chiemi Ogura and Joshua Yazzie as they explore the differences and commonalities in their respective basket weaving traditions, inspiring each other through this cross-cultural collaboration!

This program was made possible thanks to the cooperation of the Indigenous Design Collaborative, Gila River Indian Community, the Japanese Friendship Garden, and Arizona State University.

ARTISTS:

Chiemi Ogura

Chiemi Ogura creates works that incorporate the intricate techniques and diverse weaving patterns of Kyoto’s traditional bamboo craft art [竹工芸Take Kogei]. Kyoto’s bamboo craft art has evolved alongside traditional arts rooted in nature, such as the tea ceremony and ikebana, making it a natural part of modern life. By learning from the wisdom of the past, she strives to carry forward its essence and pass it on to future generations.

Instagram: @basketry_hanakokoro
Website: https://kyotakekago-hanakokoro.tumblr.com/

Joshua Yazzie

Joshua Yazzie is an enrolled member of the Gila River Indian Community (District 5 VahKi) and also plays a key role at the Huhugam Heritage Center, where he curates collections. He has initiated the Akimel O’Otham Weavers Circle to unite fellow O’otham members in celebrating and preserving this cherished tradition.

Website: https://www.gilariver.org/