deuxR Workshop in Paris produced by Style-Hug Gallery

"Tsukihikari Wooden Tray with Tsukihikari (Moon, Sun, Goose) and Tsukihikari Abeille Fleur Arrangement"

"Tsukihi-Gangi Bon with Abeille Fleur: Japanese Style Planter Workshop"
With tea and Japanese sweets

Date & Time: Monday, May 12 – 10:00~13:00 / 14:30~17:30
Location: Melodies Graphiques, 4th Arrondissement, Paris

This is a highly popular deuxR workshop featuring Abeille Fleur, held annually at our store during the early sprouting season.

Two years ago, we dreamed of hosting this workshop in Paris, and this May, we are making that dream a reality! At Melodies Graphiques in the 4th Arrondissement of Paris, we will be introducing our new "Tsukihi-Gangi Bon", alongside a special Japanese-style planter arrangement workshop.

This small handmade tray made from Itaya Maple, grown in Japan’s deciduous forests, will be arranged with Japanese violets, lilies of the valley, species anemones, irises, and more in a style resembling a potted plant arrangement. (Note: The flower materials may change depending on availability).

After the flowers fade, the tray can be used as a dessert plate or a jewelry tray.

Tsukihikari Bon
<About the Materials>
Since ancient times, Japan has carefully chosen the right season for tree harvesting.
Trees change their biological activity according to the rhythms of the sun and moon.

For this project, we waited until the broadleaf trees had shed their leaves and their biological activity had calmed before entering the forest.
Only the trees best suited for harvesting at that time were carefully selected.
By harvesting only selected trees at the optimal time, we ensure the highest quality wood while also contributing to forest conservation.

Although this selective process may seem inefficient, it is essential for securing superior wood materials and maintaining sustainable forestry practices.
For this piece, we have used high-density, high-quality Itaya maple grown in the Tohoku region, which was harvested during the snowy season.

In modern times, artificial drying is the most commonly used method for wood processing.
However, we have chosen the traditional slow natural drying method, which takes significantly more time but is better suited to preserving the wood’s integrity.
We use only wood that has naturally dried to the optimal moisture content for its species.
The wood used in this project has been naturally dried for two to three years.

<Color>
The gray tone is not from artificial coloring but is achieved using a traditional iron mordant dyeing technique.
Through four to five steps, we refine the process to achieve the desired shade of gray.

<Special Coating "L’eau du temps">
"L’eau du temps" (Water that Alters the Passage of Time) is a unique coating developed by Tsukihikari to slow down the absorption of water and oil into the wood.
This special treatment preserves the natural texture of the wood while prolonging its aging process and enhancing its durability.
Even if salad dressing, butter, or other food items are placed on the surface, it can be easily wiped off to prevent stains.

At Tsukihikari, we strive to develop innovative treatments that enhance the usability of wooden products, making them more practical for everyday life.

Abeille Fleur (Beeswax Flower)
The dry flowers are coated with beeswax, allowing them to be displayed for longer than usual dry flowers.
Depending on where and when they are displayed, the colors will slowly fade starting from about 3-4 months.
To enjoy them for a longer period, it is best to place them in a dry area, avoiding direct sunlight or light from bulbs, and keeping them away from moisture.

Arrangement Size: φ15.5cm H15cm

Wooden Tray Size: φ15.5cm H3cm

Brand: Tsukihikari

Artist: Akihiko Ozeki

Required Items:

• Craft scissors (for cutting wire)
• A sturdy bag for carrying the artwork

Profile

◆ Flower Arrangement Instructor: Yumi Watanabe (deuxR)
Yumi Watanabe began self-studying dried flower techniques in 1997. After running a physical store for seven years starting in 2004, she expanded her work by conducting workshops and exhibitions at major department stores and venues across Japan.
In 2013, she developed the concept of "Abeille Fleur" (Waxed Flowers).
In April 2019, she published her book "deuxR’s Dry Botanical" (Graphic-sha).

◆ Tsukihikari
A woodcraft brand that values the deep connection between nature and people.
The name "Tsukihikari" consists of three elements: "Moon" (月), "Sun" (日), and "Wild Goose" (雁), symbolizing the cycles of nature.
Tsukihikari’s mission is to bridge people with nature through wooden tools that carry the imprints of time while seamlessly integrating into daily life.

◆ Woodcraft Artisan: Akihiko Ozeki
A devoted explorer of woodcraft techniques in harmony with nature, Akihiko Ozeki refines his skills by immersing himself in forests and engaging in a direct dialogue with wood.
His philosophy extends beyond simply creating objects—it embraces sustainability, dialogue with nature, and the concept of cyclical renewal. His work aims to incorporate these principles into modern lifestyles, preserving the essence of natural craftsmanship.

◆ Style-Hug Gallery
Established in September 2007 in Harajuku, this gallery specializes in ceramic works by artisans from various regions of Japan. It also hosts a variety of workshops related to tableware, including gold lacquer repair (kintsugi), flower arrangement, and dining events.
In 2017, the gallery published a book "Attara Ii Utsuwa" (Kōsha), which introduces tableware and their uses.
In November 2019, it relocated to Yoyogi, Shibuya.

◆ Mélodies Graphiques
Originally founded in 1986, Mélodies Graphiques is a specialty calligraphy shop. Since 2015, it has been run by Japanese calligrapher Hitomi Takeuchi and her Italian business partner. The shop offers both calligraphy services and fine stationery.