Holiday Workshop

Join origami artist Yoshiko Ebihara for a workshop on the sixth floor at MAD as we explore traditional Japanese tableware made from paper. In this hands-on workshop, participants will be shown an overview of the traditional Japanese table setting, then how Origami and paper crafts have been practically utilized in domestic environments throughout history. The main technique introduced will be Origami. Participants will make actual items in the table set, featuring different items such as place mats and utensil wrappers, stacking boxes, cups and table decorations. While the essence of tradition is preserved, there will be some modern creations demonstrated by Ricki Ebihara who has 35 years of experience in Origami. Open to all ages, all materials provided.

About the artists: Jyoshibi Group

Yoshiko Ebihara and Daughter, Ricki Ebihara:
Ricki Ebihara was born and raised in New York City to Japanese parents. Having a Grand Master of Kendo as a father and Yoshiko Ebihara, Art & Design Producer and Curator as a mother, she was introduced to traditional Japanese cultural activities from an early age. By the age of 6, she became one of the youngest members of the Origami Center of America at the Natural History Museum. Continuing Origami as a hobby, she began to teach what she learned to others, and developed some of her own Origami creations. Accepted into Fiorello LaGuardia High School of Music and the Arts, she graduated majoring in Fine Arts. Throughout her life she has always been very creative and enjoyed teaching children and adults whenever the chance arose.

Nobuko Saji and Daughters, Erika Saji and Ayako Saji:
Nobuko Saji has been a textile designer for decorative fabrics in NY since 1980. Graduated from Joshibi University of Art and Design majoring in Graphic Design, she initially worked in public relations and advertising at All Nippon Airlines. The production of in-flight magazines featuring European cities led her to study the designing of George Jensen's Christmas Cards in Copenhagen. She had also worked as a graphic designer for children books in Japan. Her daughter Erika Saji is a physical therepist at NY presbiterian Hospital. She uses crafts in her therapy. Nobuko's younger daughter Ayako Saji is graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a degree in Interior Design.

Yuko Kawase Wylie and Daughter, Laura Wylie:
After graduating from Joshibi University of Art and Design with a degree in Painting and Art Education, she worked for several fine art galleries in SOHO, then opened a contemporary art gallery in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY. Since her daughter was born 4 years ago, she has been experimenting in early childhood art education. Origami is an essential part of her art & craft programs, as Origami is believed to promote fine motor skills, creative thinking, and complex thought processes. Her daughter Laura enjoys both 2D and 3D Origami in her own way.

These artists are alumni of Jyoshibi University, a generous supporter of this program.