Two site-specific murals for Tonkotsu Haggerston, created as part of Hackney Art Week, that move from the outdoor terrace into the restaurant. Inspired by the shapes and patterns within Japanese cooking, my murals are a playful celebration of their space. 

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My research began in their kitchen, photographing the shapes, patterns and colours of Japanese cooking alongside two traditional noodle-making machines brought over from Tokyo. From stripey nests of noodles and bright red handles, to stacks of chopsticks and jammy eggs, my designs weave these quiet but mighty details into a playful visual story of Tonkotsu's awe-inspiring space.

 

I was also captivated by the giant paper lampshades in their restaurant - chōchin lanterns that trace their roots to 16th-century Japan. The patchwork of paper repairs on them reminded me of 'kintsugi' - the ancient Japanese art of restoring broken objects by highlighting the damage, rather than hiding it - turning scars into something beautiful. I loved the story they told, so I took one of those patchwork shapes and wove it into my design.