Moss Art
Artist + Collaboration Works
Moss evangelist 増田 真人
Since moving to Asago City, known for the floating castle in the clouds, Takeda Castle Ruins, from Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, I have been captivated by the depth and mystery of moss and have begun my journey as a moss artisan.
The decisive encounter was at “Mononoke no Mori” in the Northern Hachikō Mountains. From that moment when I felt the tranquility of the forest and the breath of the moss, I began a way of life dedicated to delivering “healing” and “connection” through moss.
My hobbies include mountain climbing and moss exploration.
In my daily life, I observe the expressions of moss, enjoy the seasonal changes, and explore the potential of moss terrariums as “nature in the palm of your hand.”
Currently, as the representative of ‘Chisana Moss House,’ I create and sell moss terrariums, conduct workshops, plan and guide moss retreat tours that connect people with nature, appear in various media, and participate in numerous community events.
With the concept of “bringing a quiet forest moment into daily life,” I aim to create opportunities for everyone to connect with nature.
Ayano
As a former hairdresser, my only knowledge of henna was as a hair dye.
“You can create art with henna?” I was amazed and intrigued, and that was the beginning of my journey.
Having loved drawing since childhood, I found myself increasingly drawn to the world of henna art.
In India, henna is said to be beloved by Lakshmi, the goddess of beauty and abundance.
People draw patterns on their bodies to seek her blessings and wish for good fortune. Each pattern holds a special meaning and is cherished as a talisman or charm.
I began using the techniques of henna art to paint on objects using acrylic paints.
Whether I’m drawing on the body or on objects, I strive to create something that brings a little healing to the heart of the viewer, putting my heart into every stroke.
I have also had the opportunity to try my hand at painting Buddhist altarware.
While this is a completely new experience for me, and I sometimes feel discouraged by my own inexperience, I am more excited and thrilled than ever.
With the support of my colleagues, I aim to continue expressing myself to the best of my ability.
Thank you for your continued support.
阪口 奈都子
The moss-covered landscapes of the mountains I visited with my family during childhood trips. Those vivid memories still linger in my mind. As an adult, especially while raising children, I came to appreciate the importance of reconnecting with nature. That’s when I discovered the world of moss terrariums.
Through the Terrarium Master Course, I gained not only the skills to “create” but also the perspective of “nurturing” moss, including its ecology and environmental conditions. This has made the emotions I pour into my work even stronger.
Now, I grow moss at home and cherish the time I spend with my son, connecting with nature. Moss bridges the past and present, offering new healing. I enjoy my creative work every day, striving to share pieces that bring a sense of calm to others.
Collaboration Work：Ayano ＋ 坂口 奈都子
Thoughts
“The Legend of the Three-Chambered Waterfall and the Golden House God”
This terrarium artwork encapsulates the rich natural beauty of Chikusa Town in Shisō City, Hyōgo Prefecture, along with the legend of the Golden House God, the deity of tatara iron smelting.
At the center of the piece is a recreation of the beautiful Three-Chambered Waterfall, which actually exists in Chikusa Town. The clear flow of water and the lush greenery surrounding it soothe the hearts of those who behold it.
The base features Mehndi art depicting the legend of the Kanayako-no-kami. The deity descended before villagers praying for rain, bestowing blessings upon them. The mysterious tale of the deity riding a white heron and journeying to Izumo is expressed through delicate patterns.
Tatara iron smelting was a technology that once brought prosperity to this region but also had a destructive impact on nature. However, over time, nature has reclaimed its lush forests.
This work prompts us to reflect on the relationship between civilization and nature. How should humans interact with nature? The landscape and legend enclosed within this small terrarium space convey an important message to us.
①When the collaboration opportunity first came up
②When we met at the cat café
③When we decided on the theme for the piece together
④The aspects of Ayano’s work she was particular about, the challenges she faced, and what made her happy
⑤Her thoughts upon seeing Natsuko’s terrarium
⑥Reflections after completing the first piece
From the moment we started discussing the project with Natsuko, she made me feel so warm and welcomed. She allowed me to express myself freely while understanding her vision, and she brought out the best in me, creating an amazing collaborative piece. I am truly grateful to her (tears).
And I’m truly grateful to Karimon-chan, who gave me this opportunity, and everyone at Tsunamus (tears).
①I never thought someone like me would get to collaborate and exhibit at the Expo!! Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity!!
②I felt she was kind yet had a strong core.
③Since the theme of this Expo is “life,” I felt both anxious and excited about expressing the vast themes of nature’s life and animal life.
④ Since the original Buddhist altar piece was made of brass, I removed the original color and finished it with an earthy tone before painting.
Given the theme, I felt the challenge of expressing it within this size, especially using just one color—gold.
I don’t usually do preliminary sketches, so I drew it in one go, then painted over the parts I wasn’t satisfied with using the base’s burnt brown color, and repeated this process multiple times to complete the piece.
Honestly, even when it was finished, it wasn’t 100% satisfactory, but I decided to pass the baton to Natsu and had the piece sent to her.
When I saw the completed collaborative work with the moss terrarium placed on the base, I got goosebumps, and emotions welled up from the depths of my heart.
The piece I finished on my own didn’t feel 100% complete, but when combined with Natsu’s work, it felt like 100%, even 120%.
Collaborative works aren’t just about expressing one’s own feelings, but about working together while feeling each other’s emotions.
And the joy of completing it is multiplied two or threefold.
① When the collaboration opportunity came up
② When we met at the cat café
③ When we decided on the theme for our work
④ When I received Ayano’s work
⑤ The details I focused on, the challenges, and the joys of making the terrarium
⑥ When I completed my first piece
① From the moment I decided to collaborate with Ayano, I couldn’t stop feeling excited.
② I was amazed at how delicate and cute she was.
③ Discussing the overall theme helped me clarify what I wanted to express and convey.
④ I was moved to tears. Ayano had captured even the things I couldn’t put into words, and I felt the richness of her sensitivity and her seriousness toward her work.
⑤ I kept thinking about what it means to collaborate. It wasn’t about technical skills; I focused on the essence of collaboration. I aimed for a finished piece that would multiply the emotional impact by combining both of our works, rather than just one.
⑥ Ayano’s dedication really moved me. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with her.
３６ -ミロク-
髙岡 忠宏
Drawing inspiration from my childhood experiences in Okinawa, where I was captivated by the towering gajumaru trees in the garden and the moss plants thriving at their roots, I specialize in creating works that blend simplicity with a modern, urban aesthetic.
Through moss retreat tours, terrarium exhibitions, workshops, and creative activities, I continue to provide small spaces where modern people can reconnect with nature, fostering a harmonious blend of healing and vitality.
• Completed the “Feel the Garden” Creator Course
• Certified Terrarium Master by the Hyogo Terrarium Association
• Certified Nature Observation Guide
Collaboration Work：３６ -ミロク- ＋ 髙岡 忠宏
Thoughts
“Kotono no Rinne – Birth, Life”
This work features the creative activities of 36 artists involved in Rinne, focusing on their other charm as mushinooto, which is the creation of poetry = words. By fusing the “life” of moss plants with “poetry,” it becomes a new form of art that questions the meaning of living in the present and encourages the viewer to embrace the present moment.
“Birth and Life”
Why was I born here?
They say we choose the place we are born,
but is that true?
They say we are reborn many times,
but is that true?
We have no memories,
and we cannot find the answers,
but I simply
cherish the present
and live.
・When this collaboration opportunity arose,
I wondered if it could truly be called a collaboration, as the term “collaboration” refers to joint work or results produced by people in different positions, and it requires unexpected combinations and the creation of added value. However, since this was a very simple remake of Buddhist altar fittings using the color red, and it had been transformed into a kind of cute accessory, I decided that what I should focus on was whether adding my own value of “1” to the original “1” could result in something like “10” or even “100.”
1” with my own added value ‘1’ could become ‘10’ or even ‘100.’ The core of this was to inherit the ‘simple strength’ while elevating the emotions embedded in 36’s work through moss and sensitivity.
• When deciding on the theme of the work
When deciding on the theme, I had already decided on “life” as the central concept, drawing from the themes of the World Expo and the concept of “RINNE” (reincarnation), but I struggled to bring it into a tangible work.
• Encountering 36’s poetry
At that time, I learned that 36 was writing a poem titled “64 Notes” and posting it daily on social media. After carefully reading their account, I could sense the changes in their emotions, which led me to the theme “Words of Rinne” and ultimately to the concept of a message terrarium.
• Points of focus, challenges, and joys in creating the terrarium
Rather than using moss to create a scene, I viewed moss as a form of emotional expression, with the role of “giving life to words.” Therefore, I focused on simplicity and change.
• Meeting 36 in person
Meeting in person allowed me to perceive not just the written words seen with the eyes, but also the “words” conveyed through the emotional tone of the voice and facial expressions. Seeing the prototype of the collaborative work and receiving positive feedback further heightened the excitement that this is where true collaboration truly begins.
Kosmos
I myself have struggled with feelings of difficulty in living and have been troubled by the fact that I cannot do the same things as others. However, through art, I want people to understand that it is okay to be different. I began to think that this form of art, which anyone can do and use to confront themselves, could be a way to help others.
This art is created without using brushes or pens, but rather through the power of wind, resulting in accidental yet beautiful creations.
It is an art form that heals both the creator and the viewer.
I will continue my activities with the hope that as many people as possible will find healing and emotional support through my alcohol ink art.
おるさん
My fascination with reptiles and amphibians led me to the world of “vivariums,” where I strive to recreate their natural habitats. Eventually, I was drawn to the harmonious blend of nature and art found in moss terrariums. As a member of the Hyogo Terrarium Association, I have honed my skills through hands-on experience and continuous practice.
My works are themed around “healing,” “cycling,” and “stories,” ranging from realistic depictions of natural ecosystems to fantastical interpretations incorporating resin and art materials. I also create collaborative pieces with recycled Buddhist artifacts and works that blend urban landscapes, actively participating in exhibitions.
I strive to create works that convey the profound emotions I pour into these small worlds, hoping they may bring healing or new discoveries to others.
Collaboration Work：Kosmos ＋ おるさん
Thoughts
“The Seat of Circulating Life – The White Snake’s Prayer”
The Buddhist altarware, which had been used for prayers over the years, was nearing the end of its purpose.
However, through alcohol ink art, the altarware was reborn as a “seat of rebirth.”
The small forest placed atop it was also a landscape devoid of life.
Dry leaves, weathered driftwood, stones, and soil—nothing lived there.
But one day, a white snake quietly passed through the forest.
Where the white snake passed, moss began to sprout, ferns swayed, and the sounds of life returned.
The white snake is the “embodiment of prayer.”
And the Buddhist altarware is the ‘vessel of prayer.”
This is the ’seat” where prayer and the rebirth of life intertwine.
Life does not end. Prayer connects it.
This small world continues to illuminate the “memory of life.”
藤井 雄唯
Became a freelance illustrator four years ago.
Creates concept art for businesses on walls and large canvases.
Conducts children’s drawing workshops using paint made from vegetables.
Actively engages in artistic activities such as live painting and art exhibitions to share their artwork with the world.
Plans to open an iPad-based drawing class in July 2024.
Greemo
My encounter with medaka fish sparked my deep fascination with aquariums and terrariums. Recalling my childhood love for drawing and crafting, I found immense joy in creating stories within glass containers, combining moss, plants, stones, sand, and small figurines.
Driven by a desire to learn more, I enrolled in a course at the Hyogo Terrarium Association. There, I was inspired by the teachings of my instructors and seniors, and felt like I had finally found my calling.
I aim to deepen my knowledge of moss and plants, create a world that only I can bring to life, and craft works that can gently touch the hearts of others.
Collaboration Work：藤井 雄唯 ＋ Greemo
ありがとうファーム
disabilities,” we operate a restaurant and art activity center in Omotecho Shopping Street in Kita Ward, Okayama City,
blending into the community and working hard every day. We believe that our main mission is to create a society where people can live together with others through art, music, and education.
るみねん
While working in the construction industry on structural analysis and 3D modeling design, my visit to Shiratani Unsuikyo in Yakushima was my first real encounter with moss.
Captivated by the indescribably sacred space, I became eager to learn more about moss.
Through a connection with the Hyogo Terrarium Association, I enrolled in their master’s program to deepen my knowledge. I now focus on the arrangement, maintenance, and cultivation of moss, striving to create works with meticulous care.
Through my creations, I aim to share the beauty of moss with as many people as possible, continuing to research, experiment, and refine my skills every day.
ありがとうファーム ＋ るみねん
陽和。
In my ‘Botany painting’ collaboration with Buddhist altarware, I use sacred natural materials such as lotus leaves and Indian bodhi trees, employing techniques like collage and coloring to create expressions that highlight the energy and beauty of natural plants and the elegance of Buddhist altarware.
Buddhist altarware is being reborn through our hands and shining once again! I am honored to participate in this wonderful project and feel joy at the birth of new life.
‘Botany Painting,’ filled with the individuality of leaves and the artist’s own personality, is an energy art brimming with love, kindness, and warmth.
We strive to create works that bring healing, comfort, and strength to those who view or hold them.
岩佐 久恵
Captivated by the charm of succulent plants, I am currently preparing to open my own shop.
Spending time with each unique succulent is the greatest source of healing for me.
I have also developed an interest in the world of moss terrariums, and through exhibitions and workshops, I strive to share the depth and joy of this art form while continuing to learn every day.
I value the concept of “slow living” and “time in nature,” and I aspire to be a source of moments that bring a sense of relaxation to the midst of busy daily life.
I hope to continue my activities with care, sharing the joy and healing that comes from living with plants with as many people as possible.