From Ana in Japan

Hope that everything is going well in the studio and that the Japan Society event goes well. Please let me know how it goes.

Yesterday Petch (Thailand), Eiji sensei and I went to SAORI no Mori, it was a wonderful experience. Misao Jo is frail and rests a lot in her special bed close to all studios. She seems to be "half here, half somewhere else" as it is only natural for someone of her age and sensibility. When she is present she is very present! She held our hands and squeezed them and hugged us, we had a beautiful moment.

Misao Jo wove for us at her spot with a view to the trees outside. We talked for a little bit and then I gave her my gift. She was curious about the textures of the portuguese traditional weaving from the north I offered her. She kept on rubbing her fingers on the designs.

At some point we were walking through the studio and she saw some ribbons on the floor and bent down to get them! ...the staff played with her and said that she does not have to do it... but we can see this is her determined way, still! I could feel her spirit and when she was holding my hand and our eyes met, it was very powerful.

Everyone in the studio was wonderful. We had a great time with Jo Toshiharu that showed us designs and we saw his special group of weavers (they have been weaving together for over 20 years!) at work. Wonderful pieces.

So much to tell! The big event is tomorrow and we saw the rehearsals of Amoeba last night at the studio, it moved me.

Off to the studio. Please send my regards to all in NYC.

A smile, Ana :>

Photo courtesy of SAORI no mori