The Delicate and Graceful World of Kyoto Bamboo Craft

This embroidery-like piece will be part of a finely woven bamboo box.

Ogura at her workshop set up in an old Kyoto house.

When held up to the light a peony watermark emerges on this white bamboo bowl.

A white bamboo serving bowl featuring a lovely chrysanthemum design.

Ogura makes thin bamboo strands by hand.

Ogura starts braiding a basket by overlapping bamboo strands.

Modern bangles featuring, from top to bottoms, laurel tree, pine needle, and peony motifs.

Ogura makes her own dyes for her elegantly colored rings.

Chrysanthemum from the Shikunshi series depicting plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, known in Chinese as the “four gentlemen among flowers.” Series organized in collaboration with Asano Yukiko. (© Hayashiguchi Tetsuya)

Ogura uses a wide-blade knife to cut a piece of bamboo.

Ogura’s workshop contains different types of bamboo.

Ogura uses a wide-blade knife to cut bamboo into fine strands.

Stripping green bamboo with a small knife.

Ogura makes thread-like strands to use in her pieces.

The exhibition at the Portland Japanese Garden included pieces by five Kyoto artisans. (© Jonathon Ley)

A live demonstration at the Portland exhibit. (© Jonathon Ley)