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Mizuhiki Demonstration by Kaori Funaki

Demonstrations & Performances

When
July 29, 2026 | 1:15 PM - 2:30 PM
Where
Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner
Event Audience
Public and All Members
This event is included with daily admission or a membership to the Garden.
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Event Information

Join us for a free demonstration of mizuhiki, the centuries-old art of decorative knot-tying, led by Kaori Funaki in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center. Through this thoughtful program, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the symbolism behind mizuhiki and new inspiration for adding beauty and meaning to your gift-giving. 

Mizuhiki (水引lit. “water pull”) is made of twisted washi paper cords. This artform dates back to the 7th century, when envoys to China during the Sui Dynasty brought back gifts to Japan that were wrapped in red and white hemp strings. Following this exchange, offerings to the Imperial Palace began to be wrapped in red and white threads, and mizuhiki soon developed into a deeply rooted element of Japanese gift-giving culture. It is most commonly used to decorate gift envelopes during holidays and special occasions, with each style of knot and color of thread carrying significant meaning and ultimately symbolizing the connections between people. Mizuhiki’s unique characteristics have since inspired artists to craft new and complex patterns to create intricate sculptures, accessories, and decorations—and also inspired the logo for Japan Institute of Portland Japanese Garden.  

Artist Bio: Kaori Funaki

Kaori Funaki is a Tokyo-based Mizuhiki artist who began training in 2010. After five years of study, she founded “Kimusubi” in 2015 to elevate Mizuhiki—the ancient Japanese art of paper cord knotting—into the realm of contemporary fine art. While modern lifestyles have often reduced Mizuhiki to a mere ceremonial formality, she revitalizes this beautiful heritage using contemporary sensibilities and innovative ideas. Dedicated to globalizing the art form and passing it down to the next generation, she actively showcases the dignified beauty of Mizuhiki internationally through live demonstrations for prestigious European luxury brands, as well as exhibitions and cultural exchange workshops worldwide. 

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors

Portland Japanese Garden would like to thank James F. and Marion L. The Miller Foundation , Oregon Arts Commission, and Toshiba International Foundation for their support of arts and culture programming.