To learn more and book at place on the FEB 2027 Textile Treasures of Okinawa Tour +click here
By Patricia Belyea
Our tour participants often tell us that their Okan Arts journeys impacted them profoundly.
Here are the words of Judy B. of California, a recent traveler:
“I am a different person than the one who first arrived at SFO as a solo traveler. I am more confident than before — and that confidence is showing up in other parts of my life.”
What a surprise when bingata artisan Reika Kitagawa mentioned how our tour interaction changed her life.
Reika prepared the projects and led our three-morning, bingata-dyeing workshop at the studio of Fujisaki sensei in Okinawa.
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS PREPPED BY REIKA
SHIBUGAMI RESIST STENCILS, MADE BY FUJISAKI SENSEI, WITH PHOENIX AND PEONY DESIGNS
Here’s her email:
”For me, the workshop was the best thing in my career as a bingata artisan and one of the best moments in my life!
I think I chose this career and every path I took was meant to meet you. Everything I learned through my life came to a shape.
THE STUDIO IS READY! NOTE THE SUNNY YELLOW BACKGROUND, DYED BY FUJISAKI SENSEI, USING THE BARK OF THE FUKUGI TREE. 
After moving to Okinawa with my mother 12 years ago, I tried my hands at various jobs including pottery and finally about 8 years ago found a perfect job! But it wasn't easy at first in many ways. Now that I learned a lot from many mistakes I grew some confidence (still I make mistakes though).
After turning 30, I actually wasn't as passionate about bingata as I was before, thinking about my life again. Your visit and workshop definitely renewed my passion.
REIKA DISCUSSES THE BINGATA DYES
I have always tried my best to support my master but I don't want to be an independent artist/artisan. I'm more comfortable with a supporting role. And I always love to see people smiling. It gives me so much energy to get going.
AT WORK!
Everyone in Okan Arts tour was so wonderful and filled with positive energy! I'm very happy when I can make someone happy. That's who I am.
Sometimes, maybe most of the time, artisans feel solitude, for they need great concentration but I think all of them need feedback if what they make brings something positive to others' lives.
FIRST LAYER OF COLOR
I know some give all of their heart and soul to make one exquisite piece. But for me it means a lot to know what I make can make someone smile.
REIKA DEMONSTRATES ADDING THE BINGATA HIGHLIGHTS
So I think your tour brought so much happiness, confidence, something positive I cannot describe in words.
Thank you from all my heart.”
—Reika
The excitement for the bingata workshop clearly went both ways.
Lorraine H. of Australia wrote:
“The main reason I joined this tour was for bingata dyeing. It was an experience I will never forget — the highlight of my trip.”
FUJISAKI SENSEI HELPS LORRAINE WITH HER FINAL DETAILS
Jill M. of Spain also commented:
“The bingata-dyeing class exceeded my expectations. Each of us created a wonderful piece, and Sensei and Reika were so welcoming. That three-day experience set us up for success beyond what I could have imagined.”
Once again, I’m reminded that our tours are more than itineraries.
Our textile tours are built on human connection and creative exchange. Hosts and travelers alike are moved by the people and the shared experiences!
MORE SMILES!
THE PROJECTS WERE AIR DRIED BEFORE BEING STEAMED TO SET THE DYES, WASHED, AND BEAUTIFULLY PACKAGED.
To learn more and book at place on the FEB 2027 Textile Treasures of Okinawa Tour +click here
AN EXAMPLE OF FUJISAKI SENSEI’S BINGATA DYEING ON SILK
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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 import vintage Japanese textiles, host in-person and online creative quilting experiences, and lead textile tours to Japan.
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