Have you been on a “Swing Route”?
In football, it’s a passing (the ball) pattern in the game used when the game isn’t quite going your way. At its heart, though, it’s about trusting your instincts to make the right call, even in the middle of chaos—kind of like finding a spark of possibility when things feel messy and uncertain. I thought of this idea often during my recent trip to Japan. Japan had always been a dream destination, yet despite being on my wish list for years, the timing never seemed quite right. Trips were planned and then postponed, and at times it felt as though I’d never make it.
This one took its time but ultimately brought me there when I was ready to see, learn, and absorb it. Once in Japan, I realized this journey was more than just about reaching a destination; it was a path that invited me to see things from a different perspective. Here’s what Japan taught me both as an artist and as an evolving human, in ways beyond words.
Simplicity Holds Depth
One late evening, in a quiet by-lane of Tokyo, I discovered that less can indeed be so much more. In Japanese brush painting, a single brushstroke—flowing yet restrained—showed me how simplicity holds intention. As a calligrapher, I have used the inkstone many times but got to truly understand the deeper meaning behind it. The shape of the inkstone represents the universe, and as you grind the ink stick into water, you meditate, becoming one with it as the ink’s texture deepens. The stone, black like the ink, calms the mind, and its surface not just reflects your hand—it is symbolically your “inner mirror” connecting you with yourself and to your true feelings.
The brush itself amazed me. It’s made from multiple kinds of hair—not just one animal—because if it were only sheep’s hair, for instance, it might bring out just the meekness of the sheep. But with a mix, the brush brings together different aspects of our personalities, creating something much fuller in the painting. Each detail, so rich in meaning, felt like a whole new way of seeing simplicity. Sometimes, the most powerful thing is to keep it simple.
Perfection or Consideration
Japan is often seen as a land of perfection, but what I discovered is that its beauty comes from a profound consideration for others. Everywhere I turned, it was evident. It wasn’t just in their art but also in their daily interactions. I was struck by how often people expressed their gratitude with a heartfelt “Arigatou Gozaimasu.” (Thank you). This simple phrase carried a weight of sincerity, reminding us that appreciation transforms ordinary moments into something special. The meticulous care taken in even the smallest details (you should have seen them pack your purchase!) are worth pondering upon. This care for others and for the shared spaces creates a natural, effortless perfection. True beauty isn’t about flawless work but about putting care into what (or who) it is for.
Harmony in the Habit
I noticed the absence of dustbins in public spaces, yet the streets were pristine. It’s a testament to the cultural emphasis on personal responsibility; people carry their trash until they find a place to dispose of it properly. This respect for the environment felt like a gentle reminder of our duty to take care of our surroundings. It made me reflect on how our actions impact the beauty of the world around us. Every choice we make shapes the space we share including our mindsets.
Vibrant Heritage, Modern Spirit
Visiting Japan’s majestic castles and heritage sites felt like stepping back in time, with each one telling a story that revealed layers of history and culture. Yet, amidst these rich traditions, I discovered a vibrant modern culture that embraced all things kawaii (cute) alongside cutting-edge technology and innovative design. From adorable characters in shops to playful designs in everyday life, the love for cuteness added a whimsical charm to the experience. This juxtaposition of historic elegance with modern advancements, such as sleek architecture, bustling urban life, and advanced transportation systems, created a fascinating dialogue between the past and present that can only be found in Japan. It made me think: maybe our work/art can also be a mix of serious and playful.
Ghibli, Manga and Anime
As a fan of Studio Ghibli (I must admit I didn’t even know what it was called while growing up!), I was enchanted by the magic that permeated their films. It’s a celebration of imagination and storytelling, reflecting the beauty of nature and the human spirit. My curiosity also, led me to take a Manga class, where I learnt the intricate process behind creating these vivid stories from Sensi (teacher). Whereas, anime showcases a unique blend of art and narrative, pushing the boundaries of creativity and offering diverse worlds for viewers to explore. Their stories blur the lines between reality and fantasy, inspiring me to see art as a bridge to places beyond the day-to-day. Want to know what it’s like to step into an eight-story stationery paradise, or discover why its called the Matcha Capital to donning a traditional Yukata, or even decoding the Japanese cat obsession, my recent trip was a whirlwind of unique experiences, which I realized can’t be put together in one newsletter.
Join me as we dive deeper into these unexpected, creative, and timeless tales, one memory at a time.
While I was away trying to get wiser with another passing year ( aka celebrating my birthday), I had a blast creating some amazing Autumn and Halloween themed pieces in collaboration with…Manuscript Pen Company right before I left. Here is how October looked like on my table!
