Beyond

By Akiyo Yamamoto

About the pillowcases

Arriving from Japan six years ago out of curiosity, it is a privilege to study British art, fashion and culture. With discounted air tickets it is easy to go back to Japan whenever one wants, unlike past immigrants or refugees who went through difficulties, could not return, and took a long time to settle in Britain. Leaving their countries in which they were born and brought up, and moving to a place with different cultures and languages was a big decision. Communicating with friends and family back home by e-mail helps reduce the anxiety, makes the feeling of moving to Britain the same as moving to a neighbouring town. The easy interchange of e-mails over time zones has enabled me to live here for six years with the support of my friends and family, without feeling homesick.

About Akiyo Yamomoto

Akiyo Yamamoto is a mixed media sculptor and installation artist. She graduated with an MA from ChelseaCollege of Art & Design in 2004. She was a textile maker back in Japan, were she exhibited in solo and group exhibitions. Akiyo regularly exhibits in this country, as well as Dublin, and New York.