Carrying the Wind, Carrying a Story — A Fan for the Senses
About the Artist
Born in Tokyo in 1976, woodblock print artist Emi (Hoshi) discovered the joy of printmaking at the young age of nine. Drawn to a life of craftsmanship and nature, she moved to rural areas like Okutsu in Okayama Prefecture and Iwaizumi in Iwate Prefecture in 1998, beginning a lifestyle rooted in the mountains. By 2000, she began working in woodworking, and in 2006, she shifted her focus to woodblock printing.
Now raising children in Kagamino (formerly Okutsu), Okayama, Emi continues to quietly craft prints that reflect a deep sensitivity to the everyday and the natural world. Her works often feature animals and elements of nature, yet what stands out most is the quiet emotion and gentle gaze captured within each scene.
This collaboration with Marugame Uchiwa brings her poetic worldview to life in the form of hand-crafted Japanese fans—objects that are at once functional and artistic.
Collaboration Fan 1: The Fan-Holding Frog
A frog sits cross-legged on a tatami mat, holding a small uchiwa fan, just like a person cooling off on a warm summer night. The background features bamboo, a glowing lantern, and the subtle presence of the moon, evoking a nostalgic Japanese summer scene. Look closely and you’ll find that the frog's tiny fan bears the word “Marugame” in kanji—a playful touch that adds charm and character. It's a piece full of humor and tranquility, blending whimsy with tradition.
https://marugameuchiwa.com/products/mu004
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Collaboration Fan 2: The Rooster of France
This striking fan features a proud rooster, its feathers spread wide across the canvas. More than just a powerful image, this piece carries international symbolism: it was created for Maison&Objet, the premier French design and lifestyle exhibition. In France, the rooster is a national symbol—an emblem of pride, resilience, and identity. Emi’s depiction captures both the majesty and serenity of the bird, set against a pale sky that hints at dawn. The fan merges traditional Japanese print techniques with a contemporary, global sensibility.
https://marugameuchiwa.com/products/emi-hoshi-s-collection-ondori
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Collaboration Fan 3: Three Monkeys and a Udon Tug-of-War
At first glance, it might look like a simple game of tug-of-war—but look again. What the monkeys are pulling isn’t a rope—it’s udon, the beloved noodle dish of Kagawa Prefecture, home of Marugame Uchiwa. This humorous scene pays homage to local culture with a clever twist. The minimalistic design highlights the expressive movements and playful tension among the monkeys. It's a delightful piece that combines regional pride with Emi’s signature wit and warmth.
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Collaboration Fan 4: Hydrangeas and Frogs (Sold Out)
This semi-circular fan features blooming hydrangeas in soft lavender hues, with tiny green frogs tucked among the petals. Though currently sold out, it remains one of the most beloved pieces in the series. The scene captures the cool, fresh feeling of a rainy season afternoon—calm, peaceful, and full of life. The delicate detailing of each petal and the gentle presence of the frogs make this fan both visually stunning and emotionally soothing.
https://marugameuchiwa.com/products/emi-hoshi-s-collection-ajisainiamagaeru
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When Emi’s heartfelt illustrations meet the skilled craftsmanship of Marugame Uchiwa, the result is more than just a tool to stay cool—it’s a story you can hold in your hand. Each fan in this collection carries a breeze filled with charm, humor, and quiet beauty. Let one accompany you this summer, and feel the gentle wind of art and tradition.
