Picture this: you’re nestled in a quaint tea house in Kyoto, Japan, where the air is infused with the delicate aroma of freshly brewed matcha. Sunlight filters through a window that seems to have been plucked from a storybook, casting a warm glow that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a serene daydream. Spoiler alert: that daydream is probably me, trying to figure out how to sip tea without spilling it all over my favorite kimono.
This waterlogged piece captures that very essence of calm and light. It’s like a gentle hug for your soul, reminding you that sometimes, all you need is a little sunshine and a cozy corner to feel at peace. The window, with its delicate panes, invites you to peek outside and wonder what adventures await beyond the glass. Is it a bustling street filled with tourists? A serene garden where cherry blossoms are having a moment? Or perhaps just a cat plotting its next heist on an unsuspecting passerby?
This particular tea house is called Ōkōchi Sansō and is located on the grounds of a former actor. The Ōkōchi Sansō house was once home to Japanese actor Denjiro Okochi (1898-1962). It’s situated atop a hill overlooking Kyoto and has a beautiful garden. On the grounds is the tea house that you see here. It was a great spot to visit, sit down, and relax with some matcha and a tea cake or two.
Now, let’s talk about that lantern. It’s not just a light source; it’s a beacon of hope in a world that sometimes feels a bit too busy. I mean, who doesn’t need a little glow in their life? It’s like the universe saying, “Hey, you got this!” while simultaneously reminding you to pay your electric bill—if only it could also remind me to stop procrastinating on my art projects.
And then there’s the blue table. Ah, the blue table. Kyoto is famous for it’s blues, indigo is very prevalent there, and it’s found in a lot of the textiles. This blue cloth is the unsung hero of this artwork.
The table is not just a piece of furniture; it’s a stage for all the important moments in life. Think about it: that’s where you’ll spill your tea while trying to juggle a phone call and a snack. It’s where you’ll spread out your art supplies, only to realize you’ve lost your favorite brush (again). It’s the spot where you’ll sit, staring at the wall, contemplating your life choices—like why you thought it was a good idea to binge-watch that series instead of painting.
In this piece, every element tells a story. The watercolor technique adds a dreamy quality, making you feel like you’re floating in a world where time doesn’t exist. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the little things—like the way light dances through leaves or how a well-placed lantern can transform a room.
So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of life, just remember this artwork. Let it transport you to that serene space, where calm reigns supreme, and the only thing on your to-do list is to enjoy the moment. And if you happen to spill your tea while doing so, well, that’s just part of the adventure, right? Cheers to cozy corners, the magic of light, and the occasional tea mishap!
Until next time…
