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The Orient Expressive
“Japan has such a rich tradition of elegance and grace, woven into the depths of the Japanese soul,” Sonia says. “I was moved by the presence everywhere of strong design. I love the ancient motifs, so well preserved and still a part of everyday life, and I was even more captivated by the boldness of their contemporary designs. I drank it all in – at times it was almost overwhelming. And I definitely brought back a whole new world of ideas that we’ll use to add even more power to the solutions we provide our clients.”
As for us, we’re still wondering how Sonia made it through two weeks on the road with just a single pair of black pants.
Brushes With Inner Japan
Sonia and her husband, Chris, packed an incredible array of activities and experiences into their recent two-week tour of the Japan that few tourists see. The trip focused on how traditional Japanese art and philosophy influences contemporary life and design. From intimate viewings in artists studios, to nights spent in a buddhist monastery, to a spectacular visit to the I.M. Pei Miho museum, the tour was a nonstop immersion in the very best Japan has to offer.
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Torii Gates in Kyoto. Torii, characterized by two upright supports and two top cross-members, mark the entrances to sacred spaces.
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An example of ikebana – the Japanese art of flower arranging – from Sogetsu Ikebana School, known for its avant-garde approach. In ikebana, the emphasis is on the lines and intersections, with everything working together – stems, leaves, blooms and container – to achieve a unified composition.
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A Shinto priest calligrapher signing Sonia's temple book. |
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Chris explores a Shinto shrine in the Japanese city of Kamakura. Shinto is Japan’s native religion.
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Sonia and Chris on Benesse Island, which is devoted to contemporary art by both Japanese and internationally recognized artists. The island also features a stunning museum/hotel designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando.
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The Tsubaki Grand Shrine in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, Japan, one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
Shinto, Japan’s oldest religious tradition, combines reverence for nature and ancestors with man’s dependence on cosmic powers for growth and development.
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Sonia perched on a massive granite sign on the island of Shikoku, home of the studio of celebrated sculptor Isamu Noguchi.
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Ryoan-ji – Temple of the Peaceful Dragon – Japan’s most famous Zen garden.
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A traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
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Chris on Benesse island interacting with a contemporary art installation designed by Walter de Maria. |
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The gates to Koyasan at the top of the mountain. |
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Fun, contemporary Japanese design at Kyoto train station.
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