02 Sep 2024
Sogetsu × Nihon Akane Project
Iemoto Akane's desire to use the growth of plants as a theme, combined with various encounters, led to the start of a new project for the 100th anniversary of Sogetsu Sogetsu School (2027).
This project aims to grow “Nihon Akane,” a dye plant that has grown wild in Japan since ancient times and has been handed down from generation to generation, but is rarely seen today, and to present the results at the 100th anniversary event in 2027.
What is Nihon Akane (Akane Japonica)?
This vine perennial, which happens to share its name with the Iemoto, belongs to the Rubiaceae family and thrives in the wild expanses of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu’s fields and mountains. Characterized by charming heart-shaped whorled leaves, the plant features square stems adorned with small spines that gracefully twine around their environment as they grow. The thick yellowish-red roots have long been used to make a red dye (Akane-iro). This plant is also renowned for its hemostatic properties. Alongside Nihon Akane, there are also Seiyo Akane (Western madder) and Indo Akane (Indian madder), comprising the three primary varieties of Akane (madder). The latter two varieties are cultivated as dye plants and are readily accessible at dye shops, but Nihon Akane is seldom cultivated and made available in the market. (Excerpts from the website of the Nihon Akane Densho Project)
Sogetsu's Nihon Akane Field
The Nihon Akane Field of Sogetsu was established in Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, thanks to the cooperation of the Nihon Akane Tradition Project. The Nihon Akane of Sogetsu is growing well, even overcoming the summer heat.
Future of the project
According to the schedule, it will take about two years to firmly root and take dye from the roots. What will be the result of Akane grown from the seed? We will keep you posted on the Sogetsu website and SNS. The Sogetsu Instructors’ Federation’s journal “Sou” publishes a report in every issue.
Please look forward to the growth and achievements of Nihon Akane in Sogetsu!
Thank you for your support!
