Knitting and Self-Compassion

We are delighted to welcome the knit club “I CAN’T STOP KNITTING” for a special workshop titled “Knitting and Self-Compassion.”

In this session, participants will enjoy experimenting with yarn thickness and color combinations while creating a mini rug, experiencing self-compassion through the act of knitting.

Knitting can foster connection with others and help organize one’s emotions—allowing empathy to arise not only toward others but also toward oneself.

Concept

In contrast to contemporary art—which increasingly emphasizes abstraction and conceptualization—crafts are drawing attention for their ability to reveal the beauty and skill of everyday life. Traditions such as mingei (folk crafts) reflect not the individual artist’s ego but the collective consciousness and daily life of anonymous makers and their communities.

Our event “Knitting and Self-Compassion” focuses on the space where we, as “nameless individuals,” can immerse ourselves in the familiar act of knitting. Through the movement of our hands and the process of weaving, this becomes a journey of dialogue—with the landscape that emerges, with our own consciousness, and with our inner selves.

What is Self-Compassion?

Self-compassion means “kindness toward oneself.”
It is a mental state of accepting oneself without self-criticism, even in times of difficulty—just as one would show care and understanding to others. Cultivating self-compassion can enhance happiness and reduce stress.

Ticket Information

When purchasing your ticket, please select whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter.

Experienced knitters are defined as those who have previously crocheted double crochet (long stitch) patterns.

Workshop Includes

• Knitting lesson by the instructor (from basics to finishing)

• All necessary materials, including yarn and tools

• A vegan sweet and warm tea provided by Kurumaya

• Instructor’s live demonstration and introduction of her works

Instructor

Riho Iwasaki

Born in 1996. Graduated from Bunka Fashion College in 2019. She learned crochet from her mother at an early age and became captivated by it. Later, she launched her knit brand “ear” and the knit club “I can’t stop knitting.” Her knitting workshops focus on simple designs for everyday use that are easy for beginners to follow and flexible for experienced participants to adapt.

About Vegan Cafe Kurumaya:

Kurumaya is a food initiative that rethinks how we eat with a deep consideration for coexistence with all living things.
They create sweets using plant-based ingredients combined with healing spices, and offer wholesome vegan catering and lunch boxes made from vegetables, beans, and seaweed. Their aim is to provide joyful and delicious plant-based food experiences.

In 2028, Kurumaya will open a new vegan cafe at the art center “PAN Okinawa,” where visitors can enjoy Okinawan vegetables in an artistic setting.

Currently, Kurumaya also runs an online shop offering “Marui Vegan”—baked sweets made with Okinawan spices and teas. The package design is by London-based artist Maria Farrar.

*Please be sure to read and agree to our “Terms of Use” and “Important Notes” before purchasing your ticket. Completing your purchase will be considered as agreement to the terms.