Yvon Velthuijsen

Statement

Temari Temari is a thousand year old Japanese artform. Temari means "hand ball" in Japanese. Embroidered balls have been used in games for centuries but developed later into an art and became a gift, symbolising friendship, loyalty, beauty and love. Traditionally, Temari were often given to children from their parents on New Year's Day. The brilliant colours and threads used are symbolic of wishing the recipient a brilliant and happy life. The geometric patterns of Temari demonstrate the beauty hidden in mathematical concepts as symmetry, repetition, alternation and interweaving. In my Temari I try to carry on this tradition. I am inspired by the rich variety of geometric patterns and by the lively colours, together creating unique Temari, each with its own characteristic and atmosphere. Working these geometric patterns brings me into a meditative state of mind while making Temari. This ancient art, so rich and beautiful, deserves to be kept alive.

Artworks