Japanese weaving breaking boundaries
- Satoka aims to shed light on weaving through using old techniques for new purposes
- She trained under Living National Treasure Sonoko Sasaki
- She brings back to life waste materials that are too fragile to upcycle
Satoka Abe is a weaver specialising in nuitori-ori, a weft embroidery weaving technique. She majored in traditional dyeing and weaving at Otsuka College of Textile Design and graduated from Kyoto University of the Arts, where she obtained a master’s degree in craft design. In 2011, Satoka completed her apprenticeship in tsumugi weaving under the mentorship of National Living Treasure Sonoko Sasaki. With a strong foundation in traditional weaving techniques, her recent works reflect a desire to expand the possibilities of weaving and showcase its full potential. "Each project of mine is based on a proposal for new designs and concepts, along with research into new materials. I seek to break down boundaries between disciplines," Satoka says.
Interview
- What drew you to weaving in the beginning?
- In high school, I had a vague interest in mastering a craft. While exploring different forms of craftsmanship in the library, I found one book about Okinawa's beautiful weaving and dyeing traditions. I became fascinated by how textiles can convey women's history.
- What is the history behind your degree?
- Before the Meiji Era's dramatic modernisation in Japan, the notions of design and craft were not distinguished – they were separated only after this transformative period. The degree in craft design aims to bring together these notions and explore ways to create pieces that are adapted to modern life.
- How has your approach to crafts evolved over time?
- When I started weaving, my focus was on mastering the techniques I use. However, after years of training as a weaver, I became inspired to experiment with new materials and work with people from different fields. I believe that bringing crafts together can benefit and enrich everyone.
- What is a recent project you worked on?
- While visiting a textile factory, I discovered that some waste materials were too fragile to upcycle. To render them usable, I revived a traditional twisting tool called komayori. I find it important to adapt the materials we use to reflect today's values.
Satoka Abe is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2011 and she started teaching in 2023
