Byobu and design

The use of folding screens, or byobu, in Japanese homes began as a way to block the cold drafts in the unheated wooden houses, temples, and palaces. Every home had screens to use in this practical way, and gradually screens evolved into the supporting framework for masterpieces of Japanese painting. From a humble utilitarian household object to the highest art form, screens have had a place in Japanese culture for centuries. With the the opening of Japan, and the Western fascination with the exoticism of the Far East, screens began to appear in the homes of wealthy collectors and artists. Traditional decoration ranged from simple block printed repeat patterns, to gold or silver leaf surfaces, to refined landscape, flowers, or animal themes. Buddhist and other religions were also sources of imagery for the screens.

Chyrsanthemums from the MFA Boston

A two panel or "sleeping" screen

I began making screens in 2010. As a paper conservator, part of my training included the study of screens from a historical viewpoint in order to understand their preservation needs. The complexity of their construction is a testament to the evolution and longevity of the art form. The choice of the best materials for the core and the covering is critical to their function, but more about that in a later blog. My screens are made for the modern home, and come in different sizes and styles. They can be used in the traditional ways, or as space dividers, or stand alone works of art. They look great by themselves, or as backdrops for flower arrangements, or to set off other works of art like glass or ceramics. Here are a few:

Four panel screen with Sumi ink and mica flakes 24"h x 72"w

Sleeping screen (front) with textured dyed Japanese paper 12" h x 36" w

Sleeping screen (back) with toned paper block printed with mica

I use various methods to decorate the papers, including dry pigments, gold leaf, and brush work. Here I am working some papers.

I sell my screens at fine craft shows, and directly from this blog. I take credit cards as well as Paypal. Please contact me if you would like more information. My next show is the Pyramid Atlantic Book Arts Fair in Sliver Spring Maryland Nov 13-14 2012. Please stop by!

Elissa