Born into a family of traditional Oshima Kimono makers in Amami Island, Japan, Yukino Matsumoto was always aware of the gradual decline in its industry as well as its successors. However, when she realized that the issue was not unique to their particular kimono industry, but traditional crafts of Japan as a whole, Yukino founded Simply Native to share the beauty of these craftmanship with the wider world. Yukino was only 26 years old at the time.
Highlight
- Japanese traditional crafts finding new value overseas
- Yukino was involved in the roof restoration project at Cowra Japanese Gardens
- Telling the history and story behind each product is crucial in passing the tradition to the next generation
Having visited Melbourne as a working holiday maker, and New Zealand as an International student, Yukino felt strong connection with the Oceania region. Having little time difference with Japan, Australia was a perfect candidate for Simply Native to "Connect" the two countries together. English speaking country was an added bonus, as this meant possible expansion into other English speaking countries.
"With the strong support of local people, the amount and scale of my business have slowly, but steadily grown in the 4years since establishment" says Yukino.
One of her memorable project was the roof restoration of the Cultural Centre and Cafe at the Cowra Japanese Gardens which was completed at the beginning of 2020. The falling façade of 30year old roof was originally going to be restored with copper tiles, however Yukino hoped for a small miracle and suggested the traditional Japanese clay tiles called the "Sekishu Kawara".
The roof of Cultural Centre and Cafe was restored with Japanese Clay tiles that will last excess of 100 years Source: Yukino Matsumoto
Sekishu Kawara was developed in Shimane prefecture, Western region of Japan, to withstand the salt damage caused by sea breeze as well as the frost during the Winter season. Baked at temperature above 1200 degrees, these "fired-clay tiles" are not only highly durable and water resistant, it is low maintenance, and extremely long lasting. It is said to last more than 100 years, 'long after I am gone!" says Yukino. Despite all of these unique features, the cost for restoration was only 2/3 of the copper tiles.
Cowra Japanese Garden is a symbol of friendship between Japan and Australia, and Yukino was very pleased to be the bridge of this cultural exchange.
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1944年カウラ大脱走
For Yukino, "selecting and proposing sophisticated Japanese products that can be adapted to the global environment" is of great importance. And equally important are the conversations which she has with her clients and visitors. Yukino believes that to pass these traditional craftmanship to the next generation, she must tell people about the story and history behind each product to deepen their understating.
You can listen to more via Japanese podcast below
Kumiko panel is a Japanese woodwork technique that goes back to the 8th Century. No nails or glue are used, but are extremely durable! Source: Yukino Matsumoto
