Chrysanthemum Bag
by Rachel Gibson
$15
The CHRYSANTHEMUM, or "kiku" in Japanese, was first introduced to Japan from China in the 5th century and represents longevity, rejuvenation and nobility in Japan. It is also the symbol of autumn, harvest and goodwill. Because of its auspicious meaning, the flower frequently appears on decorations, accessories, porcelains, kimonos and obis, as well as Japan's 50 yen coin. People give red chrysanthemums to loved and respected people. "Omiyage", the Japanese tradition of gift giving, is the inspiration for a line of hand-stitched gifts by Rachel Gibson.
R.L. GIBSON (Rachel) works as a mixed media artist with work in galleries from New York to Los Angeles and collections around the world. A happily-married, mother of one, Gibson lives & works in Marion, Virginia in the southeast United States. Her practice currently explores work that overlays watercolor with embroidery. The hand-stitched component of this work lends movement to otherwise still media while paying homage to the band of quilting women she calls family.