Skrytá příroda

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world of Karolína Stará

The Bachelor's thesis represents the visual representation of poetry in the form of a book titled "Skrytá příroda" (Hidden Nature) that responds to Japanese tea culture, which venerates nature, the moment of encounter between individuals, and their return to human values during the timeless period of tea, when the mind and spirit calm down and regain the ability to enjoy the presence of the given moment.

book

illustration

bachelor's thesis

year · 2021

I perceive this work as a sincere expression of memories, moods, and the atmosphere of the tea ceremony and times in Japan. The collection is created with humility and respect for tradition and Japan, even though it is primarily intended for those around us. The book aims to evoke the atmosphere of enjoying good green tea and gently remind us of fundamental human values.

personal inspiration

The Bachelor's thesis "Hidden Nature" explores a poetic interpretation of the Japanese tea ceremony and green tea culture through a philosophical lens. It captures the profound connection between nature, human values, and the tranquility of the present moment that the tea ceremony embodies. This journey began at the age of nine, during my first visit to Japan, where the seeds of fascination with this culture were planted.

cultural encounter

Years later, returning to Japan allowed me the honor of experiencing an abbreviated tea ceremony. In just three-quarters of an hour, I witnessed a mesmerizing seated dance that sparked a deeper exploration of its tradition and spiritual essence. The ritual surrounding matcha tea offers a glimpse into the sacred and timeless aspects of Japanese culture, a culture that has enchanted me ever since.

the creation of visual poetry

The thesis culminates in the book "Hidden Nature", a collection of visual poetry combining three original haiku, accompanying texts, and paintings. These elements are unified by an innovative use of typography, printed in an offset edition of 120 hand-stitched copies. The exposed spine stitching, using varied threads, symbolizes the thread of time and reflects the Japanese aesthetic ideal of Shibumi—a quiet, refined beauty that connects all moments.

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