Illustrator
20 November
Koinobori is a carp-shaped windsock flown on Children’s Day to symbolize healthy growth and a bright future for children in Japan. This Koinobori is inspired by my childhood memories of attending Obon festivals in my hometown. Both the Hawaiian and Japanese culture use wildlife to symbolize life and longevity. These aquatic animals, the Honu (sea turtle), and the Koi (brocaded carp) represent longevity while the hibiscus and cherry blossom show the delicacy and the beauty of life. To symbolize the connection between Hawaii and Japan, a kimono wave pattern is illustrated to represent the ocean that lies between the two regions.