Design Spaces: Galerie Wa
Meet Kimiko of Galerie Wa. This lady has patience like no other! Each of her creations are made from tiny pieces of hand-cut kimono fabric that are carefully folded and placed with tiny tweezers. Here the jewellery maker shares with us a bit about herself and her work.
Hi Kimiko, where are you from and how long have you been living on the Gold Coast?
I’m from Japan, I have been living on the Gold Coast for 17 years
Where is your favourite spot on the Coast and why?
I like the beach of course, but I also like my pottery teacher’s atelier (workshop).
Describe your products in three words.
Detail, fineness and tactile.
Why did you start to make what you do?
I was fascinated by Japanese traditional craft.
Did you get formal training in your art?
I found a book in Japan, and learnt and experimented to create my own way.
Describe your studio – where is it, what do you like most about it?
It’s located at Bundall, inside a photo lab. It stores some other crafts such as handmade pottery and imported goods from Japan. It’s a nice and calm gallery space.
What is on your ‘workbench’/desk right now?
Cutting mat, tools and fabrics.
What does your working day look like?
I do other things during the day (photographic works), and I start making ‘tsumami zaiku’ at night.
What/who inspires you the most?
All people who have craftsmanship.
From all the products you have made/are making or will be making, which is your favourite and why?
Kanzashi (hair accessories) – they’re very unique.
Any advice to other local makers?
Be ‘surprising’. It’s important.
Kimiko’s intricate pieces are available at Design Spaces. Like Galerie Wa on Facebook.
If you are a local maker and would like to sell your creations in our store, you can find out more about the Design Spaces here.
