First launch of Zundeng Art Stainless Steel Wagara Stencils in 2022.
Since 2021, Zundeng Art has embarked on a new journey of exploring novel designs and shapes for his upcoming Pastel Nagomi Art stencil. The primary goal is to assist Pastel Nagomi Art enthusiasts in easily incorporate Japanese design elements into their artwork. Zundeng Art has conducted extensive research into Japanese design and characteristics and has been captivated by the traditional Japanese patterns known as Wagara.
Wagara, also referred to as traditional Japanese patterns, is an enduring and mesmerizing form of Art that has been an essential part of Japanese culture for centuries. The term “wagara” is derived from two Japanese words: “wa,” which means Japanese or Japanese culture, and “gara,” which means a pattern or design. Wagara encompasses many motifs and patterns that reflect Japan's rich heritage, natural beauty, and symbolism. These intricate designs are frequently utilized in textiles, ceramics, lacquerware, kimono, and other crafts and are admired for their aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, and historical value.
Zundeng Art Wagara Stencils
Incorporating Wagara patterns in an artwork is not a new concept, particularly in the pastel Art community, where several Wagara pastel arts are present. However, Wagara stencils are scarce, and there is a need for high-quality and versatile Wagara stencils to assist Art enthusiasts in simplifying their painting process and making Art creation more enjoyable and relaxing. As a result, Zundeng Art has taken the initiative to explore and create numerous Wagara stencils.
Wagara patterns are recognized for their delicate balance of simplicity and complexity, harmonious colour combinations, and meticulous attention to detail. They not only serve as decorative elements but also convey deep meanings, stories, and beliefs that have been passed down through generations.
Today, Art enthusiasts can now effortlessly create numerous traditional Japanese patterns using Zundeng Art's Wagara stencils.
Looking at the stencil design itself can be so satisfying too!
ZA14 Shippo
The term “Shippo” refers to a set of seven treasures that include precious gemstones and metals like gold, silver, lapis lazuli, and coral. These treasures are believed to possess spiritual significance and are often used in decoration. The circle featured in the Shippo pattern represents the seven treasures and serves as a visual reminder of their importance.
ZA15 Asanoha
The Asanoha pattern is a captivating design that merges triangles and hexagons to resemble a hemp leaf. It is widely used in creating baby clothes as it symbolizes the wish for a child's healthy growth. The hemp plant is known for its sturdy and upright growth, making the Asanoha pattern an appropriate choice for the well-being of newborns.
ZA16 Seigaiha
The intricate “Seigaiha” pattern portrayed the graceful movement of the ocean's waves and became increasingly popular during the Edo era in Japan. Originally inspired by the Bugaku dance performance called “Seigaiha,” this motif represents more than just maritime safety; it is also linked with good fortune and happiness. Symbolizing the calm and soothing rhythm of the waves, the Seigaiha pattern is associated with leading a peaceful and harmonious life.
ZA17 Yagasuri
The arrow motif is not just limited to reverence for martial arts, but it carries a variety of meanings. It can represent protection against evil, similar to how arrows were used for exorcism in the past. The arrow can also symbolize new beginnings, signifying a straight and unwavering journey without any setbacks or hindrances.
ZA18 San Kuzushi
San Kuzushi is a beautiful design pattern that features interwoven vertical and horizontal lines, commonly known as “Kuzushi-shima” in Japanese culture. The term “Kuzushi-shima” is used to describe patterns with varying numbers of lines, such as “Ichikuzushi” (one interwoven line) or “Nikuzushi” (two interwoven lines). The San Kuzushi pattern stands out with its unique composition of three interwoven lines, creating a lively and rhythmic design that captures a sense of motion and vibrancy.
ZA19 Same Komon
“Same Komon” is a distinctive design pattern that takes inspiration from a shark's skin. It's admired for its elegant and refined beauty, making it a preferred choice for formal and ceremonial events like weddings and festivals. Moreover, the pattern's charming and sophisticated character has also found its way into modern fashion and interior design, adding a touch of uniqueness and timelessness to any setting.
ZA20 Bishamon Kikko
Bishamon Kikko is a stunning pattern inspired by the armour of Bishamonten, the guardian deity of good fortune and moral virtue. The intricate design is reminiscent of a turtle's shell, with beautiful green moss-like patterns extending all the way to the tail. The intricate motifs represent longevity and prosperity, making it a highly auspicious and symbolic pattern.
ZA21 Ichimatsu
In its early days, the pattern was known as “ishi-datami mon”(石畳文 ), a traditional design that adorned the courtly attire. However, during the mid-Edo period, it gained a new name, “ichimatsu,” after a popular kabuki actor named Sano River's Ichimatsu, who often wore it on stage. Today, the pattern is beloved for its simplicity and adaptability, and it is still used in a variety of colours and combinations.
ZA22 Kagome
The Kagome pattern is a charming design with intricately interwoven lines, giving it a dynamic and mesmerizing quality. Its intricate hexagonal shapes represent the interconnectedness and harmony between all things, from the natural world to the universe. The pattern is also thought to possess powerful protective qualities, warding off negative energies and attracting good fortune to those who incorporate it into their lives.