My Biography

Midori Matsushima, Japanese Embroiderer
Date of Birth 12 th July 1951

1972
Graduated from Jissen University Home Economic dept.
Studied Japanese Embroidery with prof. Kino Hosoi

1973
Studied with Masaaki Niwa

1974
Apprenticeship at Japanese Embroidery workshop at Kiyoshi Nozawa

1975
Established own studio workshop, producing finished work.
The entire process, consisting of design, transfer of patterns, silk thread dye and embroidery was carried out by myself. (Whereas this process of production is traditionally divided among several skilled specialists)

1976
Shortlisted at Tokyo museum Exhibition at Sanki-Kai

1981
Trip to Chinese Embroidery workshop in Suzhon , China .

1984
Work appeared in the magazine “Beautiful Kimono” published by Fujin-Gaho.
(also appeared in Spring, Summer, Autumn edition in `85,`86, `88)

1985-`89
Taught at various classes in Shibuya, Kichijoji in Tokyo .

1985-`88
Solo Exhibition in Kichijoji.

1989
Moved to Sydney, Australia

1990
Established embroidery class in Sydney .

1994
Moved to London , England .
Established embroidery class in London .

1996-present
Exhibits at “The Knitting and Stitching Show” organized by Creative Exhibition Ltd., which tours in London, Harrogate and Dublin.
Teaches and demonstrates to well over 120 participants at workshops every year.

1997
Exhibited in “Art in Action” in Oxford

1998-`99
Exhibited at “Craft Embroidery and Fashion” in Harrogate .

1999
Featured in the magazine “Madeira News” Spring Issue.
Travelled extensively by the invitation of Embroiderer`s Guild and embroidery enthusiasts to teach.
Visiting lecturer at Alston Hall Residential College and Burton Manor College .

2000
Featured in magazine “Workbox” February/March Issue No.61.

2004-2011
Studied Kinsai (Gold leaf work) under Master Hajime Tonomura in Kyoto, Japan

2006
Started work using Kinsai Techniques

2011
The Victoria and Albert Museum-held Japanese Embroidery workshop.

2013
The Ashmolean Museum-held Japanese Embroidery workshop.