OSAKA — Embroidery artist Katsumi Takeoka from Japan incorporates motifs like pandas and “yum cha,” which refers to dim sum and tea brunches in Hong Kong, into her creations. These artworks have been attracting attention across both Hong Kong and Japan.
Takeoka, who resides in Osaka, has a deep fascination with Hong Kong and received certification from the Hong Kong Tourism Board as a “Super Fan of Hong Kong” in 2021. One of her notable works features “Panda Paradise,” where adorable pandas depicted so vividly they seem touchable gather at a table. Her designs also incorporate elements like hanging roast ducks seen outside shops, bottles of oyster sauce, and “bo lo yau” pastries filled with butter, all capturing typical scenes from everyday life in Hong Kong.
To takeoka employs a method known as “punch needle” to imbue her embroidery with a voluminous, plush appearance. She utilizes bulky yarn instead of conventional embroidery floss alongside a specific type of needle. This approach creates a striking visual effect, and she occasionally incorporates beads or sequins to enhance the overall “kawaii” (adorable) charm.
The artist discussed how the dynamic portrayal of Hong Kong, evident through its vivid signboards and neon lights, can be attributed to conventional feng shui color customs. According to Takeoka, hues such as red and gold—representing vitality and good fortune—are widely favored throughout the city, possibly contributing to its bustling ambiance.
Upon completing her studies at an art university, Takeoka took up employment with a company that specialized in designing infant bedding. In 1999, she made her initial trip to Hong Kong. Having been used to working primarily with soft pastel tones for baby items, she experienced the vibrant urban environment of Hong Kong as an invigorating “assault of colors.”
Since her job revolved around computers, she felt an urge to produce something manually. Recalling her childhood, she remembered the “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” embroidery set that her mom had purchased for her.
In 2000, Takeoka restarted her journey with embroidery, embarking on her artistic path. Roughly a decade back, she acquired beads and sequins during a trip to Hong Kong and started considering the possibility of creating pieces inspired by the city using these materials.
In 2021, the Hong Kong Tourism Board organized a coloring competition showcasing various sights of the city as part of their promotional efforts. Despite not being able to join within the specified timeframe, Takeoka transformed one of her coloring designs into an embroidered artwork which she shared on Instagram, thereby drawing notice from members of the tourism board. Later, in 2023, she received an invitation to exhibit her work at an arts event in Hong Kong, collaborating there with a local artist on another creative endeavor.
Many people inquire whether Takeoka intends to relocate to Hong Kong, yet her response is negative. She explains, “Maintaining the thrill akin to being a visitor is something I wish to preserve.” Regarding upcoming ventures, she has expressed interest in exploring the concept of “Neo-Hong Kong”: “My aim is to depict a forward-looking and continuously transforming version of Hong Kong,” she stated enthusiastically, her eyes reflecting her imaginative resolve.
In addition to embroidery, Takeoka produces works using tufting, a weaving method typically employed for carpets and various textiles.
(Japanese original by Mayu Maemoto from the Osaka City News Department)
