Ichikawa Yona

“In this world, all being is all the universe.” These are the words of Dogen, a Zen monk of the Kamakura period (1185-1333) whom I deeply respect. One day, I took inspiration from the red and white flowers that herald the coming of spring and the flowers that bloom like a full moon. When I look at nature, I sense the great energy and order of the universe in the natural world. From Dogen’s words, I learned that the workings of nature are connected to the laws of the universe and provide guidance for understanding human nature, the essence of being, and living a fulfilling life. I also feel the order of the universe in the rinko-weaving that I like. I want to express this commonality in my work.