Amin Abbas
DUBAI: An engaging Japanese Art Brunch was recently held at Omakaseya Restaurant, Sheraton Hotel in Dubai Creek.
Organized by Japanese Pakistani painter Nadia Yoshioka and Japan in Arabia, the event featured a guided painting session of Sumi-E inspired acrylic painting with a modern twist and unlimited authentic Japanese food at the restaurant.
Yoshioka told Arab News Japan about the main highlights of the event: “The highlights of the event were the luxurious Japanese culture experience here in the heart of Dubai. The event included painting session guided by me where I led the Japanese themed art session with my skills and my newly launched YouTube tutorial video for further step by step instructions.”
“While everyone was painting, Nadia and Jason Ishida (Japan in Arabia) made origami flowers for the participants and wrote everyone’s names in Japanese language using traditional materials like Sumi ink, calligraphy brush and bamboo paper. We also all sat down for food including, high quality cut fish for nigiri sushi and delicious maki rolls, cold soba, tempura, Egg custard (Chawanmushi) and we finished with mochi ice-cream desert.”
About the response and feedback from the people who came to the event, Yoshioka said: “The response was very positive as the participants said they it was well managed and they really enjoyed the whole experience and it was something new for some of them and for some they said the art was easy to follow along even though it was their first-time painting and for some they enjoyed the food as well. We all connected too and people who attended were all friendly, it was a great vibe.”
Yoshioka mentioned that she is planning to have monthly art events either themed one or a general one as well cultural events in the future with different packages for people.
“At Japan in Arabia, we are looking to further cultivate collaborations with local artists and businesses to offer even more diverse, authentic Japanese experiences and promote appreciation of Japanese culture,” said Jason. “By partnering with talented individuals and organizations, we aim to create enriching events that celebrate the richness of Japanese traditions while connecting with an ever-growing community of Japan lovers in the region.”