While most traditional art suffer from the lack of successors, Kaga Yuzen attracts many young candidates who wish to work in the field. The pattern dyes depicting beauty of the four seasons are certainly awe-inspiring. But illustrating objects that have long been appreciated by the Japanese is not easy. "You must first realize that nature is always changing and make sure that you observe birds and flowers very well," says Mr. Maida as if he were lecturing himself. The art has been supported by a rich tradition, but each work of Yuzen has been created by artists with realistic perception of nature. Blurring and other advanced techniques are secondary.
He continues to seek new challenges
Most Yuzen workshops in Kanazawa have other sources apply the background dye. Mr. Maida, however, carries out all of the processes at his workshop. "You and I probably have a different image of the color red. The human eye could distinguish an astronomical amount of shades from a single color. The only way to produce the color you want is by producing it yourself," says Mr. Maida who is a representative artist of Kaga Yuzen. He continues to seek new challenges. "I hope that the kimono would attract more young people. By having contact with Yuzen, even with a simple piece like a handkerchief, I hope that the youth would be reminded of the meticulous effort required in creating such beautiful work."
