FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pixel Weave Monalisa: A Fusion of Japanese Tatami Craft and Digital Visual Language by Hana Mitsui

Hana Mitsui's Pixel Weave Monalisa is a groundbreaking textile piece that transforms the centuries-old Japanese tradition of Igusa tatami weaving into a contemporary art form. Motivated by the urgent decline of Igusa culture-once central to Japanese interiors but now threatened by modern lifestyle changes-Mitsui set out to revitalize this heritage material. By drawing inspiration from the visual parallels between tatami's geometric patterns and digital pixel grids, she developed a unique weaving technique that brings the iconic Mona Lisa to life through pixel-like impressions, using only natural Igusa grass.

The design process involved close collaboration with Fukuoka-based tatami artisans and the use of specialized looms typically reserved for traditional Goza mats. After pixelating the Mona Lisa image, Mitsui and the craftspeople meticulously adjusted the weave structure and color blends to achieve the desired painterly effect. The result is a tactile, subtly colored rug that appears abstract up close but reveals the unmistakable visage of the Mona Lisa from a distance, inviting viewers to experience both tradition and innovation in a single glance.

Beyond its visual impact, the Pixel Weave Monalisa serves as a functional art rug or wall piece, maintaining the durability and natural fragrance of Igusa. The project not only showcases the untapped artistic potential of everyday materials but also encourages renewed appreciation for endangered Japanese crafts. Its debut at DESIGNTIDE TOKYO in December 2024 attracted significant attention, sparking conversations about cultural preservation and the possibilities of merging heritage techniques with modern design. The piece's recognition with a Bronze A' Textile, Fabric, Textures, Patterns and Cloth Design Award in 2025 further underscores its creative ingenuity and contribution to the evolving narrative of textile arts.

-END-