Komorebi ⽊漏れ⽇: Woven Light, Stitched Shadow

Keiko Futatsuya

Reiko Kobata

Eglė Špokaitė

Virginija Stigaite

Hiroko Takagi

L’Space in collaboration with AbidWe presents Komorebi: Woven Light, Stitched Shadow. An unprecedented exhibition combines Lithuanian handweaving and Japanese stitching traditions to create a contemporary artistic dialogue. The exhibition is produced and curated by Sąna Gous, with support from Lili Almog at L'Space Gallery.

Komorebi: Woven Light, Stitched Shadow explores the rich intersection of Lithuanian handweaving and Japanese stitching techniques, creating a cross-cultural dialogue that transcends geographic boundaries. Lithuanian artist Virginija Stigaite presents hand-woven linen textiles that reflect the natural landscape and traditions of her homeland. These linens are then adorned by Japanese sashiko and kogin stitching techniques, applied by masters Keiko Futatsuya, Reiko Kobata, and Hiroko Takagi. The addition of sashiko introduces intricate patterns into the warp and weft, while the kogin technique, known for its use of odd-numbered stitches and textures, enriches the fabric, embodying both Lithuanian and Japanese reverence for nature, simplicity, and detail.

The exhibition also features a short film commissioned by AbidWe, spotlighting Lithuanian ballet dancer Eglė Špokaitė. In this film, her students improvise in linen tunics, their movements evoking the rhythms of weaving and stitching, translating the artisans’ actions into a physical narrative. This performance bridges the gap between the viewer and artwork, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary dance.