In the quiet forests of the Nasu Highlands stands Brillante, the tranquil studio of dyeing artist Kiyoka Endo. Step inside, and you are greeted by the gentle fragrance of herbs and plants, a space where Endo lives and works in harmony with nature itself.
Originally from Kanagawa Prefecture, Endo-san moved to Nasu in 2007, drawn by its rich natural beauty and the subtle transitions of the seasons. Since then, she has created unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, like scarves and bags, each dyed using plants and trees native to the region.
Her creative process is almost alchemical. She dries and boils plants to extract their colours, patiently distilling them to reveal their natural tones. Her favourite is a soft moss green born from herbs and lavender. She also finds inspiration in unexpected materials, like used coffee grounds and animal dung, embracing every gift nature provides.
“It’s almost impossible to produce the same colour twice,” Endo-san smiles as she says. That is why each piece is truly one of a kind, created at a particular moment and in a particular place.
Her works have been showcased at exhibitions both in Japan and overseas, captivating many with the hues born from Nasu’s natural landscape. Yet what Endo-san values most is the connection with the people who encounter her work. “What makes me happiest,” she says, “is knowing that someone wears something I’ve made and finds joy in it as part of their everyday life.”
Finally, she shares a message for those who will shape the future: “Pour your passion into what you love. To do that, you must first know yourself well, and treasure what you truly love.”
Living alongside nature, Kiyoka Endo imbues her creations with the living colours of the earth.
Brillante *Closed for scheduled renewal
593-245 Takakuotsu, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture, 329-3443
0287-74-5158
The “Brillante” shop is currently closed as the artist is focusing on activities such as overseas exhibitions. Please make inquiries via the website: https://kiyokaendo.com/
