About | Jeanne Akita and Illusions Lab

IN HARMONY WITH NATURE

I am dedicated to a sustainable creative process that revolves around ecological principles and materials. Fortunately, the trend towards natural, chemical-free, environmentally-friendly, and cruelty-free products is gaining traction.

One of the key ingredients in my eco-friendly recipe is the fundamental technique of felting. It's a predominantly manual process that demands nothing more than hand agitation, a small amount of water, and natural soap. These minimal requirements make it a perfect fit for sustainable creation.

In the Illusions Lab collections, I take pride in crafting fine art decorative pieces without ever compromising my commitment to using only natural fibers and fabrics. What's remarkable about felting technology is its waste-free nature; every tiny piece of fabric or wool felt finds a purpose in the creation of the next project.

My luxury natural fibers hail from a vast array of sources, ranging from small local farms to regions all around the world. From sheep and goats to camels and alpacas, silk cocoons, cotton balls, sisal leaves, coconut husks, and the stalks of jute, hemp, flax, ramie plants, and many others, I embrace the diversity that nature offers.

Additionally, I find inspiration in beautiful recycled natural fabrics, like sari silk from India. These materials infuse a fresh and unique touch into my designs, often sparking the creative process in unexpected ways.

My values lead me to support local U.S. farmers who are dedicated to producing natural fibers. By doing so, I contribute to the growth of a local economy that aligns with ecological and cruelty-free movements. It's a small yet significant step towards a more sustainable and harmonious world.

JEANNE AKITA

BRUSHSTROKES OF BELIEF

Inspired by the mesmerizing beauty of nature's shapes and textures, I find my creative muse in the union of classical arts and antique philosophy. As an artist, my journey into the world of decorative art has been driven by a deep passion for sustainability and a reverence for natural materials.

My path as an artist began with a fascination for the ancient technique of felting. The simplicity and purity of this process captivated me: using nothing more than my hands, water, soap, and carefully chosen sustainable loose fibers, I found a way to create art that is both environmentally friendly and deeply personal. Each piece I create is a labor of love, meticulously crafted from the finest materials, including Merino wool, Tussah silk, Flax, and even raw lamb's fleece sourced from a small farm in Idaho.

The sculptural aspect of my art is paramount. I approach each creation as a three-dimensional sculpture, paying meticulous attention to every micro detail. This dedication ensures that each piece is not only visually stunning but also rich in texture and depth. Every fiber, every curve, and every intricate detail is a testament to the time and care invested in my work.

In my artistic journey, I have also embraced the shibori dye method and brush painting techniques. These final touches breathe life into my creations, transforming them into tangible works of art that celebrate the inner harmony and peace I find in the world around me. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of these techniques add another layer of complexity and beauty to my pieces.

Each piece, born from my hands and inspired by the beauty of nature, becomes a testament to the enduring allure of classical artistry and the timeless wisdom of ancient philosophy. Through my work, I aim to create not just art, but a connection to the natural world and a reflection of the inner peace it brings. My story is one of dedication to sustainable practices, a love for natural materials, and a passion for creating art that is both beautiful and meaningful.

UNVEILING THE UNSEEN

I embrace collaboration as a vital part of my artistic journey. Connecting with fellow artists and enthusiasts fuels my creativity and pushes the boundaries of what I can achieve. Each collaboration offers new perspectives and energies that enrich my work.

Looking ahead, I'm excited about exploring new horizons in art, fine craft, and fashion. Whether it’s experimenting with techniques, exploring different mediums, or creating art with a social impact, I'm committed to pushing my artistic boundaries with curiosity and enthusiasm.

My goal is to create art that resonates deeply, evokes wonder, and fosters a greater appreciation for the beauty of our natural world. Through my work and collaborations, I aim to build a community of individuals who share a passion for art, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Together, we can create a more beautiful and sustainable world, one piece of art at a time.

With heartfelt wishes and boundless creativity, Jeanne Akita

ANCIENT ALCHEMY

Though felting is an ancient technique that traces its roots back thousands of years, it continues to evolve with each project, offering the opportunity to create a myriad of artistic effects in decorative art and wall pieces.

In contrast to industrial felt, hand-felted pieces are distinctive in that they emerge as a unified 3D entity, sculpted by hand. The exclusive and sophisticated texture that arises from this artisan hand-felting process is a harmonious blend of natural, luxurious, high-quality loose fibers and fabrics.

Felting is a wonderfully meticulous yet time-consuming journey. Crafting a single decorative art piece involves multiple stages, from layering the fibers, the actual felting process, hand-dyeing the fibers, the filling process, and adding other decorative elements.

Hand-dyeing the fibers adds a unique and personalized touch to each piece, allowing for the creation of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. This meticulous attention to detail enhances the overall aesthetic and elevates the artistry of the final piece.

Typically, this entire process demands a minimum of 40 to 320 hours of dedication. Each hour invested is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into every piece, making it a labor of love that reflects the timeless beauty of this ancient technique.