Colors of Nature: Messages from Antiquity 

Fumiyo Imafuku

Fumiyo Imafuku is a Japanese textile artist and professor of Architecture and Art at Otemae University, Japan. Her research and artistic practice merge traditional Japanese dyeing and weaving techniques with contemporary environments. Imafuku's scholarly work includes the historic revival of ancient purple dyeing methods—a complex, time-honored process she has recreated and exhibited internationally.

This exhibition features works created specifically for this exhibition using natural plant-based materials, as well as various works in katazome, a traditional Japanese stencil dyeing technique.

Through these works, visitors are invited to explore the beauty of the finished textiles and the cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and time-honored processes of life.

This exhibition features works created specifically for this exhibition using natural plant-based materials, as well as various works in katazome, a traditional Japanese stencil dyeing technique.

Through these works, visitors are invited to explore the beauty of the finished textiles and the cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and time-honored processes of life.

Artist Bio

Fumiyo Imafuku is a Japanese textile artist and professor of Architecture and Art at Otemae University in Japan. She earned her B.A. and M.A. in Textiles from Kyoto City University of Arts and specializes in traditional dyeing, weaving, and textile-based installations.

Imafuku is known for her research on natural dyes, particularly the revival of ancient purple dyeing techniques. Since 2017, she has explored and recreated these historic methods, presenting her work in exhibitions throughout Japan and internationally, including projects related to Expo 2025 Osaka.

Her artwork has been exhibited widely in Japan, Europe, and North America and is included in numerous public and private collections. Through her practice, Imafuku connects traditional Japanese textile techniques with contemporary artistic expression.