Sashiko exhibition by Rei Saitoh

13 January – 28 February, 2015

‘Sashiko’ is a kind of traditional embroidery from Japan.
Born in 1928, Rei Saitoh hails from Tsugaru in the North of Japan. Ever since she learnt this embroidery technique from her grandmother at the age of five, she was fascinated by its beautiful patterns and technical possibilities.

In their spare time amidst housework and farming, Japanese women in the North would apply Sashiko embroidery on working clothes and dresses. The most decorative form of Sashiko is called ‘Tsugaru Koginsashi’ and is much treasured. The characteristics of Rei Saitoh’s Sashiko embroidery style lies in her original combination of traditional techniques and modern sensibility, which helped people rediscover its artistic value.

This exhibition will show about thirty Sashiko artefacts from the old to the new, presenting a wide range of her works such as furoshiki (Japanese wrapping cloths), tablecloths, bags, vests and bedcovers. Some antique Sashiko works from her own collection will also be displayed.

Through numerous publications and TV appearances, Rei Saitoh has been a shining star in the world of Japanese embroidery. Various expressions of this technique and its usage in everyday life will certainly prove to be a source of inspiration to Swedish lovers of embroidery.