It has been a long time since people have talked about the "age of the local" , but now is the time when people are especially interested in local things. The web media and online store "OMUSUbee" is a "local guide" that sheds light on the local areas of Japan and suggests good things in an interesting way. HOUYHNHNM will feature original products planned by "OMUSUbee" in a series format. This time, we have teamed up with illustrator 5eL to bring you a selection of items that will add color to each summer and everyday life.
Photo_Taijun Hiramoto & Yozo Yoshino
Text_Shinri Kobayashi
Simple is powerful.
The collaboration series introduced here is the result of "OMUSUbee" joining hands with modern artists from Japan and abroad. Illustrator5eL (Fibel). These items incorporate artwork drawn by
5eL is an illustrator who draws flowers, plants, and fruits as motifs. The vivid color schemes and strong touch of her simple works are both pop and powerful. He has held solo exhibitions in various locations and collaborated with numerous brands, including "Journal Standard.
The collaboration includes two series, "summer scenes" and "everyday items," and we will start with the former, which includes four classic Japanese summer items: a tenugui hand towel, an uchiwa fan, a wind chime, and a mosquito-filled pig.
Memories of summer are made with pop Japanese accessories.
The "summery" series updates the old and good with a modern essence, and is truly a collaboration at its best.
Tenugui hand towel ¥2,750
It can be displayed as a tapestry.
First of all, we have tenugui hand towels. These are water-absorbent and quick-drying, and the more I think about it, the more I realize that they are perfect for the Japanese summer. The full-color reproductions of 5eL's powerful and vivid illustrations are sure to stand out in the strong sunlight. Incidentally, the meaning of "GREEN MiND" is said to express 5eL's respect for the richness of nature and the handiwork of its artisans.
fan made of persimmon juice (esp. used in summer)Left: Flower Right: Hand Each ¥5,500
The bamboo frame is made of bamboo, which is cut and cut by hand, one by one.
This fan is based on the Raimin Shibu Uchiwa, a traditional craft of Kumamoto Prefecture. The Japanese paper part is coated with persimmon tannin to increase durability and insect resistance, and the color will become a nice shade as it is used more and more. The illustrations of the 5eL rose and the hand on the fan are truly pop. It is also great as an interior decoration.
Edo Fu-ring ¥5,500
Originally, wind chimes were used all year round as bells to ward off evil spirits.
Wind-bells bring coolness to people's minds through their tones. These wind-bells are called "Edo-style wind-bells," and are handmade using a traditional technique that has not changed for 300 years since the Edo period. The jagged edge of the ringer, which is unique to "Edo Fu-ring," produces a soft sound. The hand-painted rose motif on the transparent glass has an American West Coast atmosphere and can be used as an interior decoration.
Mosquito pig ¥11,000
In reexamining the reason for the pig shape, the prevailing theory (there are many theories) is that the first containers created to repel mosquitoes resembled a pig.
This pig is somewhat humorous. Yes, it is called a "mosquito repellent pig" and is used to hold mosquito coils. The pig is a simple black-and-white unglazed pottery with a hand-drawn illustration of a rose, which is synonymous with 5eL, and can be used as a mosquito coil or incense burner. It can also be used as a small container for small items at the entrance.
Small, cute things that add color to everyday life.
Now, the second half of this article will introduce items from the "Daily Collection," which are perfect for daily use.
Middle socks (gray) ¥2,530
in additionWhite base typeAlso.
Short socks (white) ¥2,200
in additionBlack baseAlso available.
. Socks are not only fashionable but also functional in terms of comfort. For example, the shin portion is knitted in a less constrictive manner, while the area from the ankles down is knitted in a cushioned pile, resulting in socks that are comfortable and less tiring. All socks are produced by a manufacturer in Nara , the birthplace of socks.
Flower Toy SetLeft: A Right: B Each ¥11,000
. somewhat reminiscent of the "flower rock" of yesteryear.
The iconic 5eL flower is designed to look like a potted plant. The stem is made of wire and can be bent into any shape. Instead of a pot, this mug can also be used as a vessel for coffee or other beverages. Since there is no need to take care of it, you can give it to someone you love as a gift of flowers with good taste.
Mug ¥2,200
The 300 ml size is just right for a mug for daily use.
handkerchief made of towelsLeft: Gray Right: White Each ¥1,980
The coloring of the piping is also cute.
The last item in the series is the "Yes" series of small items, which means excitement and joy when things go well, such as "Okay, I did it, that's it, I've got it, I've got it, I've got it, I've got it," etc. "Yes" is also used to indicate a good omen, such as "I've got it, I've got it. Since mugs and handkerchiefs are used every day, it is nice to have a good omen.
Both series of items are basic, but with the addition of 5eL's illustrations, they are finished to raise the mood of your daily life a little higher. We hope you will try these items to enjoy today more than yesterday and tomorrow more than today.
