Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Bamboo Business...

Ray recently put the word out that he was interested in learning more about the bamboo arts. Word spread to a local reporter, who located an older gentleman who is known as a local "bamboo master" or "take sensei". Two Mondays ago, Ray travelled up to the far northern portion of the lake, nearly two hours away, to meet with Sasaki san. The lovely gentleman taught him how to make a bamboo tray.






The two men had such a good time, Sasaki san invited Ray back, along with his family. This past Monday the four of us hopped on a train and made the beautiful trek up the lake. This time, Sasaki san walked Ray through the art of making a basket...

The quaint workshop. The wood stove was delightful to beat the sharp bite of cold outside. They live directly on the beach of the lake, an incredible piece of property handed down through the generations of rice farmers.



Our little man thought Papa's basket made for a perfect hat...

Sophie loved lounging with the beautiful Obachan...

These are a few of Sasaki san's baskets.

...and this was Ray's final product. Not too bad, eh?

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

NICE JOB, BASKET BOY.
BLESSINGS TO THE MASTER FOR TEACHING YOU.
X

Hollie said...

you guys truly make the most of your time there! Such fun!! and great memories :) Can't wait to hear about all your adventures in person hopefully this summer!!