A Symphony of Color and Form
Visitors to the Renaissance Resort Okinawa are invited to immerse themselves in a world where the bold, sun-drenched colors of Okinawan Bingata meet the delicate, intricate forms of paper art. The collaboration between these two distinct artists promises a visual feast, transforming the hotel’s space into a vibrant gallery.
Yuka Arakaki: The Master of Bingata
Yuka Arakaki, a Naha City native, embarked on her artistic journey in 2009. Her unique approach to Bingata, a traditional Okinawan resist dyeing technique renowned for its vivid patterns and colors, has garnered widespread acclaim. Arakaki’s work transcends conventional boundaries, as evidenced by her contributions to projects like Ryukyu Bank passbooks and hotel decor. She consistently receives high praise for her distinctive style that reinterprets traditional Bingata imagery.
Mitsuru Kuniyoshi: Sculpting Nature with Paper
Mitsuru Kuniyoshi, also from Okinawa, is a visionary three-dimensional papercraft artist. He is the creator of “Coral Flowers”—intricate paper sculptures that he utilizes for spatial design and various art installations. Since his inaugural solo exhibition in 2017, Kuniyoshi’s talent has taken him beyond Okinawa, with his outdoor installations and sculptures gracing events in Taiwan and Hong Kong.
The synergy of Arakaki’s vivid, bold color palettes and Kuniyoshi’s delicate yet striking forms creates an immersive experience. The artworks infuse the hotel environment with a lively spirit, drawing in viewers with their intricate beauty. “It’s truly breathtaking how two such different mediums can tell a unified story of Okinawan artistry,” one might muse while wandering through the exhibition.
Explore the Art and Take Home a Piece of Okinawa
Beyond the captivating display, the exhibition offers a chance to take a piece of this artistic collaboration home. Original goods inspired by the artists’ works are available for purchase at the “Shop Avenue.” This presents a wonderful opportunity to acquire unique souvenirs that reflect the spirit of Okinawan craftsmanship.
Meet the Artists
Yuka Arakaki
Born in Naha City, Yuka Arakaki was drawn to Bingata by its vibrant colors, which she felt could stand against Okinawa’s strong sunlight. After graduating from Shuri High School’s Dyeing and Weaving Design Department and gaining experience at a Bingata workshop and the Okinawa Prefectural Institute of Industrial Arts, she launched her career in 2009. Her talent was recognized with Grand Prizes at the Ryugin Bingata Design Contest in both 2011 and 2012, and she has been selected for the Nitten Exhibition. Arakaki’s work extends beyond traditional crafts, appearing in hotel decorations, textbooks, and corporate product designs. She actively holds numerous solo exhibitions across Okinawa and beyond, currently basing her creative endeavors in Yomitan Village.
Mitsuru Kuniyoshi
An artist hailing from Okinawa Prefecture, Mitsuru Kuniyoshi specializes in spatial design using three-dimensional paper flowers, known as “Coral Flowers,” and conducts workshops. He held his first solo exhibition in 2017. Kuniyoshi is a rising artist who has contributed to numerous outdoor installations and sculptural designs, including event venue decorations in Hong Kong (2019) and the Taiwan Lantern Festival (2023), showcasing his work extensively in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
The Venue: Renaissance Resort Okinawa
“Shop Avenue,” located on the second floor, is more than just an exhibition space; it’s a treasure trove of Okinawan traditional crafts. Here, visitors can find exquisite Yachimun pottery, Ryukyu glass, and Shisa guardian figures. The shop also proudly displays and sells works by Okinawa’s first Living National Treasure, Jiro Kinjo, and fellow Bingata Living National Treasure, Yuko Tamanaha. The shop operates from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
The Renaissance Resort Okinawa itself offers an unparalleled beach resort experience with all rooms boasting ocean views. Guests can enjoy over 60 activities, indoor and outdoor pools, and unique dolphin programs where they can interact with dolphins living in the resort’s lagoon. The resort also provides various dining options across nine restaurants and bars, including sunset BBQ, Ryukyu charcoal grill, sushi, Japanese cuisine, French, and teppanyaki. With amenities like Yamada Onsen hot springs, a thalassotherapy salon, and multiple shops, it caters to guests of all ages, ensuring a luxurious resort stay. Special benefits for long stays, such as “Club Savvy,” and anniversary services are also highly regarded. For more information about the resort, visit Renaissance Resort Okinawa.
This exhibition not only highlights the individual brilliance of Yuka Arakaki and Mitsuru Kuniyoshi but also serves as a vibrant platform to introduce Okinawa’s evolving art scene to a global audience. By bringing together traditional and contemporary forms, it enriches the resort experience and fosters a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique cultural heritage, inspiring future generations to explore the boundless possibilities of Okinawan art.
