“Greetings for the Opening of the Seiryuten Exhibition” from the catalogue of the first exhibition in
1991”
Here in Japan, there are many world reknown crafts. In particular, Kyoto known as “Kyoto- City of
Textile Dyeing”is admired as a great center for the development of textile dyeing.
Moreover, the “Seiryukai” was founded last year to promote the development of contemporary dyed
art, and now the first Seiryuten exhibition has opened to the public. This exhibition focuses on dyed
art mounted on panels or traditional folding screens. Exhibiting artists include, first of all, respected
professor of rozome dyeing Sano Takeo and highly distinguished artists of textile dyeing. Though they
are from various affiliations and ages, all selected artists seek contemporary beauty and continue to be
active in the field of dyeing. I am very grateful for the support of Seiryukai artists who have exhibited
their exquisite works. Many of the pieces from this exhibition will be put into a collection which will be
eventually preserved in the soon to be established “Museum for Dyed Art”. Furthermore, until the
opening of this museum, the works will be properly preserved and housed in a temporary gallery space. I
believe that this exhibition is not just a mere business venture, but rather the foundation of a long term
social cultural project. Moreover, I hope to establish a cornerstone for Kyoto’s world of textile dyeing. I
love “Kyoto – City of Textile Dyeing”, therefore due to my involvement and responsibilities in the
textile business, I decided to take on this project. With all of your support, advice and cooperation, I
wish much success for this venture.