J is for Japan 

I love getting a glimpse into some sweet cafes and shops of Japan via Natural Days : ) 

J is for Japan

Some amazing products coming out Japan:

Daisy Balloon is a renowned balloon artist, my mind is blown ;)

Ribbonesia, by BAKU ...I love his whimsy and want to hang out with all the people on his blog!

Môko Kobayashi's 'Piece of Conversation' beaded accessories.

But the best thing coming out of Japan is my sweet friend Ami, who will be home in a few weeks ! xoxoxo

J is for Japan

The Japanese term 'zakka' (many things) applies to anything that improves the appearance of your home or yourself. It consists of attention to detail and product design, placement and usability. Sure maybe its just a consumerism catchphrase but zakka enthusiasts see it as a form of self expression and finding beauty in the mundane.

I am a big fan of the Japanese lifestyle/interior magazines that are Zakka to the core, having them in your home makes your home a better place. The above images are from teaSpoon, Ku:nel, and Come Home magazines all which can be shipped from Japan via this great site!.

J is for Japan

Well, so far my motto !Japan 2010! hasn't come true, so I'm living vicariously through other peoples adventures there.

The first image is from Hello Sandwhich is more obsessed with Japan than I am, therefore she just moved there from Australia.

Lucky!

The second image is from Sumimasen, a travel blog by french artist Isabelle Bionot... I especially like her photos of fun packaging.

And third is a clip of Chris Marker's 1983 documentary Sans Soliel, a 'movie poem' with some amazing Japanese scenes.

J is for Japan

Japanese artist Misaki Kawai lives in Brooklyn and creates amazing works that combine Japanese and American esthetics ( fluffy kitties riding on the handlebars of a large bottomed lady) as well as fun mix of kawaii (cute) and downright dirty.

Here is a very giggly video of the artist!

J is for Japan





I am in love with the textiles and clothing from Japanese design house Mina Perhonen

J is for Japan

My mother, Karen, is famous in Japan. This trailer played on a billboard in Tokyo for a month.

I imagine there are even tshirts made with her face on them and the words 'What did they call each other?'

-Mom you should update your blog because it's so nice!