I love patterns!!! Any kinds of patterns… I just love patterns. Especially when I am assigned to branding projects that allow me to incorporate patterns into the brand design, my heart would skip a beat or two in pure excitement.
Then again, I shall not get into my commercial work. Let’s go back to the original subject. Pattern design… I chanced upon indigo dye while doing research for my Taiwan trip. So while I was there, I signed up for a short workshop 卓也藍染 Indigo Dyeing House at Miaoli.
Indigo dye is a Japanese dyeing technique that typically involves folding, twisting or bunching cloth and binding it, then dyeing it in indigo. Initially I was more attracted to the effect of the patterns rather than the process of dyeing. But when I discovered the joy of the process…. man! I really salute those that are so passionate about it.
I used the indigo dye on my tote bag. My experience was definitely only a small fragment of what the whole process is. But I found out later that the indigo leaves aren’t that popular among farmers as it’s less profitable, and that it’s also a dying trade. But that’s the thing about craft. It’s never easy. It’s hard to imagine these artisans having to grow their own indigo leaves and harvesting it. It’s a long haul before the leaves can be made into indigo dye and used in the final crafting.
I just enjoy experimenting with things…Trying things that I have not done before. Just keep trying, keep playing with different materials. Don’t be afraid to fail.
One of my fave quotes has to be:
“PLAY IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF RESEARCH” by ALBERT EINSTEIN
Let your imagination go wild. In the process of experimenting… you will never know the outcome. But don’t stop. Keep seeking the new; recycle; rearrange; reinvent… By experimenting with the unknown, your solutions could be just in front of you. Enjoy your day. Be in the present… cos today is a gift.
Check out these indigo masters :
https://www.instagram.com/buaisou_i
Really cool stuff here.
You can check out the indigo dyeing house. I had stayed there for a few days. It’s a place wrapped in greenery. Think peace.