A swallow family meets a photographer during lockdown

The chicks open their yellow beaks as wide as they can, eager to be fed. Their vibrant appearance is dazzling. Chicks of passerines (sparrows, swallows, crows, Java sparrows, etc.) have yellow beaks, and their parents fly towards these yellow openings in search of food.

The photo book that Rinko Kawauchi took of a family of swallows she found near her home is part of a series called "Des oiseaux (About Birds)" published by Atelier EXB in France. This series, which features photographers from around the world capturing birds from their own perspectives and styles, is bound in a cloth cover with photos and small title text. Even in its simplicity, there is uniqueness in each book, as there are different types of birds and photographers.

The pale-colored cloth that wraps the photo book of the swallow family is like the air of the photo book from spring to early summer. The pale purple color resembles the dawn when we wake up from sleep, the sweet fragrance of violets and wisteria flowers, and the evening sky.
The colour of the cross was probably chosen to match the photo book, but the ephemeral nature of the colour makes me feel a little sentimental.

In April, the 72nd season is "Swallows Arrive"
This is the time when swallows from faraway southern countries begin to arrive in the Japanese archipelago.

The 24 solar terms that originated in ancient China were adopted in Japan as they were, but the 72 seasons have been revised to suit Japan's climate and customs, and the current system is based on the Meiji era system. In recent years, the number of swallows has been decreasing, so it may be time for changes to both our annual activities and the 72 seasons.
When I think about it that way, the colors of the cover, which seem to encapsulate the dreams and brilliance of a brief moment in life, become even more sad and endearing.

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Text and photos: fumika arasawa designer After working as a freelancer, I now work for a company and occasionally help out my friends. Instagram: @fumika * Click here to purchase related products at rovakk musikk.

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Rinko Kawauchi “Des oiseaux (On birds)”

Artwork: Rinko Kawauchi (photography), Corinne Aguetas (design)
Format: hardcover
Product no. 9784908062353
Link: Rinko Kawauchi - Des oiseaux (On birds) [NEW / SIGNED]
*Autographed copies of the book are available at rovakk musikk.

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WALLFLOWER CATALOGUE

A variety of artworks that will inspire your design spirit bloom on your walls every day.
Designer Arasawa Fumika will introduce one piece each time.
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