Yumi

artist. maker. designer. gardener. photographer.

My main muse is Mother Earth, particularly the breathtaking land throughout the Pacific Northwest on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples.

Inspiration comes from gratitude to Mother Earth and her offerings: scenic hikes, beachcombing, wildlife encounters, being in the garden, as well as the feeling of serenity, freedom, and recharging of the soul when ‘forest bathing’ (しんりんよく).

I enjoy incorporating elements of nature, and aim to evoke a little bit of magic in what I make either by design or chosen ingredients.

Studio Pottery
Often wheel thrown, relief carved.

Every piece is unique, I work with each “lump” of clay to give form to what it wants to be. Careful trimming and experimentative glazing brings each piece to life.

I had the opportunity to re-ignite my curiosity of working with clay, learning how to throw in 2022 and supplementing with learning traditional kintsugi in 2024. A life-changing journey to Japan in 2023, particularly a day trip to Mashiko, was a huge inspiration and reinforced my purpose. My first exciting raku firing experience took place in October 2024.

My work is influenced via osmosis by traditional Japanese shapes, ancient Chinese floral motifs, and the beautiful elements of Mother Earth along the Pacific Northwest.

From the Garden
Herbs & flowers from the garden infused in various oils used to create small batches of herbal salves, soothing lip balm, cold-processed soaps, bath fizz, and hand poured beeswax candles.

I started making these items for myself when I was tired of wasting money on products that caused my sensitive skin to react or triggered headaches from strong artificial scents. Seeking out to learn through various workshops over many years, inspired by my late-grandfather who was an avid gardener, & also apprenticing at an organic flower farm + floral design from 2022-2023.

I enjoy using oils infused with roots/flowers/herbs usually from the garden, essential oils, local BC beeswax, and other natural ingredients.

No artificial preservatives, fillers, or toxic chemicals.

Fine Jewellery
Most pieces are oxidized to bring a sense of natural wear to echo darkened tones of antiquity with hints of dainty detail.

I started this journey in 2015, and am inspired by antique jewellery, ancient temples, rustic countryside, and the curious allure of port towns.

As of 2020, I have paused making jewellery to focus on pottery + the garden - remaining work still available to purchase. Intentions to re-visit this flame one day.

Thank you for visiting.

Yumi x

Artist Bio

Yumi (she/her) was born in Vancouver, BC - a 2nd generation Hong Kong x Japanese Canadian. On paper, her background is in classical piano performance and piano pedagogy (ARCT, B.Mus, B.Ed).

However, upon diving deep within and exploring various creative endeavours over the years, she has found profound meaning in re-connecting to her lost family heritage through art/craft, particularly through self-study, as well as working with clay & plants.

Yumi enjoys creating tangible objects using her hands, telling non-verbal stories, & has a love for historical places + artifacts. In her spare time, she enjoys being immersed in nature, travelling & taking photographs. She currently resides on the island.