Chinese or Japanese

I’ve often been told I look Japanese. That I have Japanese features or look like Geisha. I also happen to have a very common Japanese last name too. But I’m not. I am in fact, 100% pure blooded Shanghainese. (like a Harry Potter pure blood)

My family has had a very tumultuous past with Japan and the Shanghai Invasion that happened during WWII. My Grandma distinctly remembers these dark times, and would tell me stories of how they had to flee to survive. This has bred a lot of resentment in their generation.

I understand these feelings, but I also have a deep respect for Japanese culture. They are so unique in the way that they do not lose sight of tradition. That they never forsake the past for the future. I feel like China does that a lot - rushes to knock down historical sites and forgets heritage in its rush for modernization. The Japanese people have managed to perfectly blend the past with the present. Preserving traditions and perfecting technique that have been passed down for generations.

I met this wonderful Lady Yumiko in New York who runs a kimono shop - Kimono House. She inspired me to do this shoot with authentic vintage kimonos that have been passed down since 1970’s. These are not costume pieces. These are timeless treasures, restored, loved, and now entrusted to me. I love these handcrafted silks, and the carefully knotted obi. Yumiko said that for a woman to learn how to tie an obi properly takes up to 6 weeks! Now that is dedication for simply learning the art of how to tie a belt!

Luckily for me, she was here to help me on this shoot so that I could do it correctly. Look at how intricate it is! And the photo doesn’t do it justice, but the obi is actually about 40ft long - which means it is extremely heavy.

It was such an honor doing this shoot, I have so much appreciation and respect for this rich culture that has survived the ages. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it and carry the tradition forward.