Heian courtiers 1,200 years ago wore robes made of fabric dyed with medicinal herbs to produce colors of prayer for peace and to keep evil at bay. But most of these colors have been lost to time. Fascinated with these forgotten pigments, some Kyotoites are endeavoring to revive them and create new dyeing techniques. Discover how people have taken up the challenge by learning from the classics and the ancients, cultivating wild plants to be used for pigments, and making handcrafted garments.

Carbon- and glass-fiber textiles promise potential for a sustainable society. Textile artworks boast fine, painting-like and photo-like expression. Artisans who weave with their fingernails establish opportunities to teach the craft. One creator works to convey the traditional weavers' passion through accessories she makes from weaving byproducts. Discover how Nishijin weavers employ their respective skills in the pursuit of new potential to suit the times and fight the shrinking kimono market.