Unveiling the Vibrant Universe of Vegetables in 'Dancing Vegetables'

Discover the Intricate Beauty of Vegetables in 'Dancing Vegetables'

On December 4, 2025 (Thursday), Sekai Bunka Publishing Co., Ltd., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, will release the remarkable book titled 'Dancing Vegetables'. Authored by Naomi Gunma, this masterpiece delves into the vivid and dynamic life of vegetables, portrayed through breathtakingly detailed illustrations.

The book features realistic depictions of vegetables, capturing each minute detail—from delicate hairs and soil grains to subtle scars—matched in size to their actual forms. As readers gaze upon these illustrations, they are drawn into the vibrant microcosm of vegetables, each one radiating vitality and seemingly dancing on the page.

Naomi Gunma, the talented artist behind these illustrations, was awarded both the gold medal and the highest honor at the RHS London Botanical Art Exhibition for her piece titled 'The Divine Work: The Life of Shimomita Negi'. Over a span of 17 years, Gunma has meticulously crafted life-sized representations of 86 traditional vegetables from Edo Tokyo and local varieties, offering readers a fresh perspective on the beauty of the produce around them.

Among the featured vegetables are:

- Nerima Daikon - The beauty nurtured by humans and nature, encouraging us to discover the splendor in our daily surroundings.
- Okutama Wasabi - Presenting the whimsical character of its star-like form.
- Zucchini - Showcasing the mysteries of its speckled surface.

In addition to these stunning illustrations, 'Dancing Vegetables' includes essays written from Gunma's unfiltered perspective on the life found in nature. The text is presented in both Japanese and English, enhancing our appreciation of the small wonders of the natural world and enriching our daily lives with colorful insights.

Furthermore, the book contains a detailed examination of 'The Life of Shimomita Negi', the award-winning masterpiece that was recognized at the 2019 RHS London Botanical Art Exhibition. This section is presented in a grand fold-out format, allowing readers to fully appreciate the intricate details of this extraordinary work.

About the Author: Naomi Gunma

Born in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, Naomi Gunma graduated from the Tokyo Zokei University with a major in painting. During her college years, she found solace in the beauty of fresh green leaves and their life force, leading her to create art centered around these themes. In 1991, she discovered the tempera technique, which allowed for more intricate detailing, shaping her current artistic style. Since 2006, she has taught leaf representation at the Setagaya Art Museum’s 'Art University', passionately conveying the beauty and wonder of ordinary leaves.

Naomi’s collection—including the award-winning pieces from the RHS London Botanical Art Exhibition—has played a significant role in enriching botanical art and culinary appreciation. Her publications include 'Words of Leaf: Calendar of Leaves', 'Naomi Gunma's Museum of Foliage and Fruits', and 'The Life of Leaves'.