This summer, I have continued to take inspiration from the joy of seasons in Japan. Currently, we are in the season dedicated to the ajisai- the hydrangea; that gorgeous water and heat loving plant that can be found in a variety of shades and blooms.
I have several hydrangea in my own garden, and the idea of this beautiful summer flower season inspired me to create several art pieces- such as a painting with matching frame, and a few hand painted sewing boxes, complete with hand stitched pin cushions inside.
All of these items are inspired by the rich colors of summer flowers, especially a deep emerald green, indigo blue, a touch of pink, and cooling, snowy white. This color palette I am lucky to have just outside my door, as my hydrangeas reach their peek in the steaming heat.
At the moment, I have Annabelle hydrangeas, Phantom Hydrangeas, and a dependable and hearty collection of Oakleaf Hydranges, which do particularly well in the baking heat of an Oklahoma summer.
In addition to being inspired by the flowers of summer, the sewing boxes are also inspired by traditional Japanese handcrafts, such as “boro” stitching. This rustic type of stitching leads to utility-driven patchwork that is also pleasing to the eye. I hand sewed a pin cushion for each sewing box out of Japanese fabric, hand-dyed fabric, and touches of boro stitches.
All of these items will be available to purchase in my Etsy shop at noon (12 pm) CENTRAL TIME today, Friday July 11.
Perhaps there is a piece that you would like? I hope that you have enjoyed a peek at these items, fresh from the painting desk!
Wishing you a quiet, peaceful summer day-
Take Joy!
H
Sleightholm Folk Art 
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