“NIHONGAMI SISTERS” TOTEMS . 2022

The "Nihongami Sisters" series is an homage to the intricate and culturally rich tradition of Japanese women's hair arrangements known as "Nihongami." These totemic sculptures aim to amplify women's narratives and celebrate cultural heritage with deep respect and sensitivity. Inspired by the delicate complexity of Nihongami, each sculpture captures the symbolic meanings and social significances conveyed by these hair arrangements. The distinct designs and decorative elements of Nihongami, which often indicated a woman's social status and rank, are embodied in the sculptures.

Maru, the tallest totem at 1.7 meters, features twelve black velvet blades, evoking the Marumage hairstyle, traditionally worn by married women during the Edo and Meiji periods. The Shimada totem, at 1.4 meters, is inspired by the Shimada mage, a simpler hair arrangement typically worn by unmarried women. The Toro totem, at 1 meter, is inspired by the Tōrōbin hairstyle, where the hair is arranged to resemble traditional Japanese lanterns (tōrō). This style was popular during the Edo period and commonly seen in geisha and courtesans.

Building on my earlier work, the "Corintio" ToTem, "Nihongami Sisters" presents column-like structures with softer, more organic curves inspired by traditional Japanese hair arrangements. The columns display vibrant colors and varied textures, such as black velvet blades, pink, soft blue, and white elements, and intricately wrapped sections, giving the sculptures a dynamic and lifelike quality.

These sculptures, enveloped in three-dimensional burel wool fabric, velvet, and thread, explore the sensory materiality of fabrics. They create tactile shapes that evoke emotions and reflect the diverse experiences of women. By interpreting traditional hair arrangements into contemporary sculptures, I hope to connect past and present, encouraging reflection and dialogue on women's roles and cultural expressions.