MAKING WASHI WITH ARTISAN MYU UCHIDA

KOCHI, JAPAN

Washi is a type of Japanese paper made from plant fibres. It has been made for thousands of years and is registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. It is an incredibly versatile material used for shoji (Japanese window, door, and room dividers), as well as books, art restoration, and thread for clothing.

Kochi prefecture on Shikoku island, Japan, is well known for its washi production due to its kozo (paper mulberry) farms and pristine rivers. It was here that I met Myu Uchida who kindly gave me an insight into her craft.