"ikasu" is contemporary kimono textile art that reconstructs antique and vintage kimono that have fulfilled their role, transforming them into art that continues to exist beyond time.
By translating the memories, craftsmanship, and stories embedded within kimono into contemporary spaces, the project creates works intended to be passed down to future generations.
The term "ikasu" (生かす) translates to "revive" or "give a second life" in Japanese.
The artist behind ikasu is Lena Okamoto, a textile artist who holds a Kimono Meister certification.
Vintage obi textile art " Pines Through Seasons " by ikasu Black Beige Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn, Reclaimed Wood
Antique kimono textile art " Kobachi ~Coral Collection~ II" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn, Reclaimed Wood
Vintage kimono textile art "Snow in Moonlight ~Kintsugi~" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Gold Leaf
Antique kimono textile art "Geometry ~Colors of Desert~ II" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Fabric, Textile, Silk, String, Thread, Yarn, Wood
Japanese vintage kimono textile art " Kobachi" blue white wall art by ikasu
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Fabric, Textile, Silk, String, Thread, Yarn, Wood, Reclaimed Wood
19th Century obi textile art " Pine forest ~ Longevity ~ " by ikasu Green Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable...
Gold Leaf
Antique kimono textile art "Pink waves ~Endlessness~" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable...
Silver Leaf
Mid 20th Century kimono textile art "Cloud of Pines ~Timeless~" by ikasu Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable...
Gold Leaf
Vintage kimono textile art "Moonlight sakura ~Transience~ II" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable ...
Gold Leaf
Vintage Obi textile art " From the Ashes ~ Serendipity ~" by ikasu Beige Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Canvas, Silk, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn
Antique kimono textile art "Geometry ~Kintsugi~" by ikasu Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Gold Leaf
Early 20th Century kimono textile art " Rising Sun ~ Renewal ~ " by ikasu Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Gold Leaf
Mid 20th Century kimono textile art " Yin–Yang ~ Balance ~" by ikasu BrownJapan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Gold Leaf
Late 19th Century kimono textile art "Plum Blossom ~Resilience~" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Gold Leaf
VIntage kimono textile art " Geometry ~ Marble ~" by ikasu Gold White Grey Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, col...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn, Reclaimed Wood, Compo...
Early 20th Century kimono textile art "Sakura ~Ephemerality~" by ikasu Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn
Antique kimono textile art " Plum Blossom Night ~ Resilience ~ " by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable...
Silver Leaf
Vintage kimono textile art " Sunset Timelapse ~ Ephemerality ~" ikasu Red Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, collectors, boutique hotels, and lovers of Japanese aesthetics. [Story behind the work] The art piece uses two sides - front and reverse - of the same kimono, to show beautiful sea surrounding Japan, in hues and in late sunset, as a timelapse. The frame for this work is made of paulownia wood taken from antique Kiritansu - chest-of-drawers for kimono. I use antique kiritansu that can’t be used as furniture anymore to create basis and frames for my works. It adds them even more authentic atmosphere of traditional wabisabi spirit. Can you feel it? [Period / Story] The kimono used in this piece was originally crafted during the late Showa period (1960-80ies). [Explanation and meaning of pattern and colors] Sea waves, depicted in two color variations here, are a symbol of transience and Impermanence in Japanese culture. The ebb and flow of the tides, the ever-changing currents, and the relentless motion of the waves serve as reminders of the fleeting nature of life. This artwork featuring the sea convey themes of impermanence, reminding viewers to cherish the present moment and appreciate the beauty of life's fleeting moments. The theme of impermanence is strengthen by two colors of the sea - the lighter in early hues and the darker when the sun is just about to set in the sea. [About the frame] This artwork frame is crafted from paulownia wood, a uniquely Japanese material closely tied to the world of kimonos, and it serves to convey the refined beauty of Japanese nature. Paulownia wood is known as the lightest wood in Japan, prased for its natural luster, resistance to moisture, and resilience against cracking. Since ancient times, it has been used in crafting furniture, chests, and musical instruments. Paulownia wood is closely linked to kimono culture. During the Edo period (17th cent.~), it became customary to store cherished kimonos in paulownia chests...
Gold Leaf, Silver Leaf
Early 20th Century kimono textile art "Flower of Life ~Bonds~" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable ...
Gold Leaf
Vintage obi textile art " Broken Vase ~ kintsugi ~" by ikasu Black Gold Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, collectors, boutique hotels, and lovers of Japanese aesthetics. [Story behind the work] This work uses a vintage obi dated around 1980ies, with a feather motif, and arranges it so that it looks like a vase. Antique obi, just as it is a broken vase, is united back again with black obijime - a string used to tie up obi when it’s worn. Framed in kiritansu (antique chest) paulownia wood. It is elegantly framed with paulownia wood originally used for kimono chest-of-drawers, and is filled with storytelling and sense of luxury. I used pieces of kimono that could no longer be used as clothing and kiritansu chest-of-drawers that would normally be discarded to create the ultimate upcycled piece. [Explanation and meaning of pattern and colors] Feathers hold various meanings and symbolism in Japanese traditional culture, often reflecting themes of spirituality, symbolism, and folklore. Here are some of the meanings associated with feathers in Japanese tradition: ・Divine Protection: Feathers are often seen as symbols of divine protection and spiritual guidance. Feathers, especially those from birds, are considered to be imbued with the protective energy, offering spiritual guardianship and safeguarding against negative forces. ・Connection to the Spirit World: Feathers are sometimes associated with the spirit world and the realm of the divine. In folklore and mythology, feathers are depicted as messengers between the earthly realm and the celestial realms. ・Symbol of Beauty and Elegance: Feathers are admired for their natural beauty, grace, and elegance. In traditional Japanese arts such as Noh theater, Kabuki, and dance performances like Kagura, actors and performers often use feathered costumes or accessories to enhance their appearance and convey a sense of refinement and sophistication. ・Sign of Good Luck and Prosperity: In Japanese folklore, certain birds like cranes and pheasants are considered symbols of good fortune, longevity, and prosperity. Feathers from these birds are often depicted in art and craftwork as auspicious symbols believed to bring blessings and positive energy to the bearer. [About the frame] Kiritansu - chest-of-drawers for kimono, is traditionally made from paulownia wood, a uniquely Japanese material closely tied to the world of kimonos. Paulownia wood is known as the lightest wood in Japan, prased for its natural luster, resistance to moisture, and resilience against cracking. Since ancient times, it has been used in crafting furniture, chests, and musical instruments. During the Edo period, it became customary to store cherished kimonos in paulownia chests...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn, Reclaimed Wood, Compo...
Mid 20th Century obi textile art " Moon phase II " by ikasu Silver Black Japan
By Lena Okamoto, Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage obi fabrics. Sustainable...
Silver Leaf
Vintage kimono textile art " Snowflake ~ New Beginnings ~" by ikasu Purple Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included. One-of-a-kind Japanese textile art made from vintage kimono fabrics. Sustainable artwork for modern interiors, ...
Canvas, Silk, Fabric, Textile, String, Thread, Yarn
$332
H 10.83 in W 15.75 in D 0.01 in
Japanese Textile Patterns in Rich Colors: Antique Lithograph, 1880s
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Japanese Textile Patterns in Rich Colors: Antique Lithograph, 1880s This remarkable lithograph from the 1880s features two vibrant examples of traditional Japanese textile pa...
Paper
Exceptional Embroidered Japanese Ceremonial Kimono
Located in Atlanta, GA
A visually striking antique Uchikake Wedding Kimono/Robe for ceremonial occasion, circa end of Meiji to Taisho period 1910s-1930s. This bridal outer garment is of a bright red color ...
Brocade, Silk
19th Century Painting by Heinrich Ewers
By Heinrich Ewers
Located in Belmont, MA
A girl wearing a traditional German costume is carrying a rooster in a basket. The German painter Heinrich Ewers was born in Wismar 1817 and died in Duesseldorf...
Canvas
$1,060
H 18.12 in W 24.02 in D 0.79 in L 18.12 in
Italian Moonlight Landscape By Alberto Cecconi, Vintage Original Oil Painting
Located in Bristol, GB
VINTAGE ORIGINAL IMPRESSIONIST OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING BY ALBERTO CECCONI, (ITALIAN 1897-1971) Depicting a rural landscape at night with the full moon ...
Canvas, Wood, Paint
Vintage Japanese Ceremonial Wedding Kimono with Embroidery Designs
Located in Atlanta, GA
A large Japanese Wedding Kimono with bold embroidery designs. The auspicious attire was known as Uchikake and was worn by the bride during the wedding ceremony made from silk and hea...
Brocade, Silk
$900
H 12.6 in W 24.57 in D 1.19 in
Antique Japanese turnip painting fragment / Pre-Edo / Wabi-sabi framed art
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
This piece is a fragment of an old Japanese painting, cut out and mounted in a frame. It is thought to have originally been part of a folding screen or hanging scroll, and depicts a ...
Wood, Paper
19th Century Japanese Shunga Hand-Scroll, Katsukawa School
Located in Kyoto, JP
Shunga Unknown artist Meiji era, circa 1880 Hand-scroll mounted with 12 paintings Ink, pigment and gofun on silk Dimensions: Each image measures H. 23.2 cm x W. 34.4 cm (9.15” x 13.5”) The hand-scroll measures H. 28 cm x W. 540 cm (11” x 212”) A set of 12 late 19th century Japanese Shunga paintings mounted as a hand-scroll. Two of the leaves bear the signature and seal ‘Setsuzan’, although we are unable to confirm the identity of the artist using this art name. 6 of the 12 images are taken almost directly from Katsukawa Shuncho’s late 18th century woodblock series, ‘Erotic Pictures...
Silk
Vintage Japanese Gauze Kimono with Embroidery Modern Design
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Japanese formal Kimono made with a very fine black linen gauze augmented with applied modern circle pattern. The garment was hand-stitched and dated to circa 1930-50s. The black ga...
Silk, Linen
Japanese Edo Six-Panel Haboku Landscapes of Seasons
Located in Rio Vista, CA
19th century Japanese Edo period six-panel screen painted in Haboku (splashed ink) style. Depicts Four Seasons landscape scenes with two portraits of Chinese sages. One sage is trave...
Gold Leaf
$760Sale Price|46% Off
H 32.68 in W 22.45 in D 0.4 in
Brutalist Wall Textile in Earth Tones, Dutch 1960s, Signed & Dated
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Intriguing tonal textile art piece, made with layers of fabric, loosely stitched. “Abstract composition in textile”, signed and dated verso DIMENSIONS h 83 cm w 57 cm d 1 cm ...
Canvas, Jute, Cotton
$4,800
H 68 in W 18 in D 1 in
19th Century Japanese Scroll Painting by Igarashi Chikusa, Poppies & Butterflies
Located in Kyoto, JP
Poppies & Butterflies Ink, pigment and gofun on silk Igarashi Chikusa (1774-1844) Signature: Chikusa Ran Zen Upper Seal: Ran Shuzen Lower Seal: Kyoho Dimensions: Scroll: H. 68” x W. 18” (172cm x 45cm) Image: H. 38.5’’ x W. 12.5’’ (98cm x 32cm) This composition shows elegant images of poppies and the butterflies that are inevitably drawn to them. It captures a momentary glimpse into a world both visually dazzling and startlingly realistic. The painting is infused with sensitivity and attention to seasonal change and weather conditions. The thin and fragile poppies are beautifully depicted with brilliant colors and the butterflies are similarly infused with life. The painting is on silk which requires extremely precise painting skills as no element once painted can be removed. Poppies were a favorite subject of Rinpa school artists through the ages. Originally they were somewhat abstracted but by the age of Sakai Hoitsu...
Silk
Vintage Japanese Formal Black Silk Kimono
Located in Atlanta, GA
A vintage Japanese silk Kuro Tomesode Kimono, circa 1960s-1980s. Kuro Tomesode is a dress for married woman for the most formal occasions, equivalent of the evening gowns in the west. It is overall black, decorated only with patterns of bright colors on the bottom. This kimono has three Mon family crests on the front and back shoulder. It is lined with white silk in its interior. On the front, it features exposed white stitches around neck and breast, a very subtle and elegant touch. The bottom part of the kimono is decorated with lavish woven design with embroidery accents that depicts a group of pheasants among peonies and other blossoms along a flowing stream. Great contrast in the colors and attention to details. An very elegant textile for wall...
Silk
Sold
H 35.44 in W 39.38 in D 1.58 in
Vintage kimono textile art "Cranes through Generations" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu, Lena Okamoto
Located in Setagaya City, JP
One-of-a-kind Japanese textile artwork crafted from vintage kimono fabric. Sustainable artwork tailored for modern interiors, art collectors, boutique hotels, and connoisseurs of J...
Silk, Wood, Fabric, Textile
Sold
H 1.58 in Dm 19.69 in L 1.58 in
Vintage kimono textile art "Moonlight sakura ~Transience~" by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work / Certificate of Authenticity included [Material] antique silk, golden leaf, acrylic, pine wood [Story behind the work] “Moonlight sakura” captures a ...
Gold Leaf
Sold
H 1.58 in Dm 19.69 in
Early 20th Century kimono textile art "Sealine ~Transitions~ " by ikasu Japan
By Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
Certified Kimono Meister work [Story behind the work] This artwork uses two pieces - white vintage kimono fabric for sea and green vintage obi (sash for kimono) fabric for seashore,...
Gold Leaf
Sold
H 13.39 in W 9.45 in D 1.19 in
Vintage Obi textile art " Golden Landscape ~ Perennity ~" by ikasu Gold Japan
By Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
<> This obi is a stunning example of traditional Japanese textile artistry. It showcases a waterside landscape using a visual technique known as "kumodori," where ocean waves a...
Canvas, Silk
Sold
H 1.19 in Dm 7.88 in
Vintage obi textile art "Sacred Geometry ~Longevity~" by ikasu Orange, Japan
By Kimono ikasu
Located in Setagaya City, JP
About This Canvas This unique canvas has been meticulously upcycled from a vintage obi—a traditional Japanese sash—entirely adorned with auspicious motifs and richly detailed floral ...
Canvas, Silk