Indigo Alchemy

Introduction to My Indigo Journey

In 2016, my journey with natural indigo dye began with the project "Le Grand Bleu," where I explored Japanese Shibori techniques on various papers. This fascination with indigo's unique properties led me to delve deeper, from cultivating the plant to extracting its pigment through traditional fermentation methods. 

Indigo Cultivation and Process

Growing and Harvesting Indigo

The project took a pivotal turn when I received my first Persicaria tinctoria (Koujoko) seeds from Marian Gorostizaga of Kokoro Indigo Culture in Spain. Cultivating the indigo plants became a core part of my work, and in 2020, with the support of Tolhuistuin in Amsterdam, I created an experimental indigo garden. Here, I nurtured the plants, learning the intricacies of their growth cycle and eventually harvesting them for pigment extraction. 

From Plant to Pigment

The ancient process of indigo pigment extraction involves fermenting the indigo leaves to release the natural dye. After fermentation, the pigment is settled, yielding the distinctive blue pigment that has been prized for centuries. The rich blue extracted from the plant forms the foundation of much of my artwork, representing a blend of history, nature, and craft.

Handmade Indigo Paper: A World First

Creating Sustainable Paper from Indigo Residues

In a likely first, I took the indigo journey one step further by transforming the post-fermentation plant matter into handmade paper. Using traditional papermaking techniques, I boiled the fermented leaves and stems in a wood ash solution to create pulp, resulting in a beautifully textured dark green paper. This unique paper, created directly from indigo plant residues, adds a sustainable and innovative layer to the project, utilizing every part of the plant.

The Final Product

The resulting paper not only carries the natural pigment from the indigo but also embodies the sustainability of utilizing every part of the plant. It stands as a testament to the strength and longevity of handmade paper, known for its durability and resilience when properly stored.

Artworks from Indigo Dry Leaves

Celebrating the Indigo Plant

Beyond pigment and paper, I have explored new ways to honor the indigo plant. After drying the leaves I created artworks that celebrate the plant's life cycle. These pieces pay tribute to indigo’s cultural heritage and its profound connection to both art and nature.

Exhibitions:

Sofia

Global Connection: Indigo Shade Map

Proud Contributor to the Indigo Shade Map

I am honored to be part of the Indigo Shade Map, an innovative and interactive project that showcases the global community of indigo growers and artisans. This initiative highlights the rich heritage of indigo cultivation, ancestral knowledge, and the deep human connections forged through this timeless craft. By joining this map, I connect with fellow indigo enthusiasts from around the world who share the same passion for preserving and celebrating indigo’s beauty and cultural significance.

Indigo Shade Map

Call for Collaboration