#Japan #Tokyo #Tamana-ha #Taira #Okinawan Textiles

Exhibition of Okinawan Textiles Featuring Tamana-ha Yuko and Taira Kyoko

From May 22 to June 1, the Seiko House Hall will host a remarkable exhibition titled "The Dyes and Weaves of Shuri: A Joint Exhibition by Tamana-ha Yuko and Taira Kyoko". This event showcases the richness of Ryukyu's textile art, preserving age-old traditions through the works of both artists.

Tamana-ha Yuko, a Living National Treasure and holder of the important intangible cultural property "Bingata", presents powerful and regal Bingata dyes that reflect the aesthetic values of the Ryukyu Kingdom. On the other hand, Taira Kyoko offers stunning pieces made from "Nigashi" banana fabric, renowned for its delicate colors and beautiful sheen, which she has known since childhood in Nago City. Together, their works embody a harmonious blend of tradition and modern creativity, making this exhibition a must-see.

The Art and History of Nigashi Banana Fabric

The Nigashi technique involves boiling fibers in wood ash lye for dyeing, a method that dates back to the Ryukyu Dynasty. During this period, only members of the royal family and the elite could wear Banana fabric. Visitors to the exhibition will have the chance to see how these ancient methods have evolved, as well as their significance in today’s art scene.

Featured Works

Tamana-ha Yuko

• - Bingata Obi "Yuki Tsumugi Chi: New Sprout Design"
• - Aizome Obi "Yaeyama Kamufuchi Chi: Shrimp Motif"

Taira Kyoko

• - 9-inch "Nigashi: Evening Forest"
• - Kimono "Nigashi: Wave of Light"

Collaborative Works

• - Bingata Obi "Kushi Banana Fabric Chi: Butterfly Pattern"
• - Bingata Obi "Kushi Banana Fabric 8 Inch Chi: Banana Circle Pattern"

Artists’ Backgrounds

Tamana-ha Yuko

Born in Ishigaki City, Okinawa, in 1936, Yuko trained under Eiki Jo in 1962 to master the art of Ryukyu Bingata. His accolades include several prestigious awards, such as the Minister of Education Award at the 38th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 1991 and the recognition as a Living National Treasure in 1996. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to promoting Okinawan culture, including showcasing his work at the 2000 G8 Summit.

Taira Kyoko

Kyoko, born in Nago City in 1952, began her journey into the realm of banana fabric weaving in 1987 at the Ogin Village Banana Fabric Hall. With more than a decade of experience, she later established her own practice in 2008, where she continues to harness her familial heritage in crafting Nigashi banana fabric. Kyoko embraces the complete process—from fiber creation to dyeing and weaving—sustainable and in harmony with nature.

Event Details

• - Title: The Dyes and Weaves of Shuri: A Joint Exhibition by Tamana-ha Yuko and Taira Kyoko
• - Dates: May 22 (Friday) - June 1 (Monday), 2026
• - Venue: Seiko House Hall, 6th Floor, 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Inquiries: 03-3562-2111
• - Hours of Operation: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (closes at 5:00 PM on the last day)
• - Closed: Open every day
• - Admission Fee: Free

The Seiko Hall has recently been renamed Seiko House Hall, continuing its mission to present various exhibitions related to the Seiko Group and to foster collaborations with artists from around the globe.

For more information, please visit our website or check our Instagram for updates.

Note: Photography requests will be accommodated outside of business hours. Operating hours and events are subject to change without prior notice.