ikasu

ikasu means “give a second wind” in Japanese.

Under the concept of "Re-create kimono", I carefully select and rescue valuable artistic garments, giving them a second life as textile art. Striving for 100% sustainability, I use wood from traditional Japanese chests (kiri-tansu) for the frames.

I draw inspiration from traditional symbolism, meaning of patterns and motifs behind the textiles, so each work holds a message and is created to bring positive energy. It especially speaks to those who appreciate meaningful art and wisdom of traditions. 

My works got featured in over 100 media worldwide. 

I won the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Labor Bureau Award at Japan Handmade of the Year 2024, acknowledging my activity in upcycling kimonos, symbols of Japanese traditional culture, to create new value, proposing sustainable ways of using kimonos, and breathing new life into traditional industries.