Kimono: elucidating meanings of Japanese textile artifacts for a museum audience

ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to create museum texts and educational materials for a textiles section major year-long university exhibit focused on exploring Japanese culture aesthetics through works fine applied art. Little background information about the available. A sample historical kimono, yukata, obi in collection examined using material semiotics methods. motifs present were identified explored how represent values relevant cultural practices throughout time. In particular, analyzed their noted conveyance society’s religious values. Motifs predominantly botanical, emphasizing respect nature within culture. Other motif categories included geometric, animals/insects, cultural/everyday objects, landscape motifs. 104 individual identified. Symbolic meanings interpreted alongside materials, colors, techniques. use methods analyzing is mapped study.