This editorial explores the art of Kintsugi, a Japanese tradition that embraces imperfection. This art involves fixing brokenness, usually in pottery, and embracing that flaw by using lacquer to fix it, thereby making it even more beautiful than it was before.
Isn’t that concept so amazing, such a reflection of what we need in our real lives? I’m always searching and chasing after perfection, and it is only recently that I’ve realized that the imperfection IS what real life is about. I’m often feeling this way when one of Everest’s favorite toys (okay, one of MY favorite toys) is lost or has been “loved” too hard — usually by a pup. It breaks my heart until I remember that I will long for these days, that the imperfection is actually amazing and special, and that some people would give anything for that messiness.
This editorial was shot under Karthika Gupta at PhotoNative, a conference for photographers that took place in Santa Barbara this year. We met at a cute AirBnb that had a backyard cottage house, which made a lovely setting for this shoot.
The art of kintsugi wouldn’t have been truly authentic without a more full context, so Karthika was able to get a vintage kimono from her friend for our model, Zoe, to wear. I loved this authentic touch! She got dressed, completed a Japanese tea ceremony, and then practiced kintsugi with a piece of broken pottery.
The group of photographers were so great to work with — we took turns working with Zoe and setting her up in the types of light that made our heart sing. You can see some of my favorite images from this editorial below:
Thank you to the following for your help in creating this amazing editorial! It would not have been possible without you!
Concept, design, and instruction: Karthika Gupta
Wardrobe: Sachiko Eubanks
Model: Zo from Lubove Agency
Conference: Photonative
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