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By Patricia Belyea
OKINAWA JP In Japanese, shiyon means four.
Shiyon, an impeccable studio/shop in Yaese Town, represents the collaboration of four skilled weavers. Founded in 1996, the studio has seen changes in its lineup of artisans, but the number remains constant—four members.
Beyond the high level of craftsmanship, Shiyon’s products are full of gorgeous colors. Each weaver dyes their own yarn, primarily using plant-based materials.
When we arrived at midday on Sunday, November 3, Emiko Yamashiro and Atsuko Kikumura welcomed Yuki and me. (It was surprising that Shiyon was even open as it was Culture Day in Japan!)
Across the date line, in America, it was Saturday, November 2—my 40th wedding anniversary. Knowing that Michael would want me to choose something memorable on such an auspicious day, I purchased a yellow and pink table runner woven by Emiko.
The moment felt special—connecting with dedicated, accomplished weavers, admiring Shiyon’s charming space in a traditional tile-roofed house, and being surrounded by glorious textiles.
It doesn’t get much better than that!
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ABOUT US: Okan Arts, a petite family business, is co-owned by mother-daughter duo Patricia Belyea and Victoria Stone. Patricia and Victoria sell Japanese textiles online, host creative quilting experiences, and lead quilting & textile tours to Japan.
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