Quizzing the Creatives: Ebony Bizys
The wonderful creative world of Japan is a constant source of inspiration for blogger and all-round crafty whiz Ebony Bizys, the creative mind behind the super cute blog Hello Sandwich. Here she shares some of her inspiration.
How does a typical work day pan out for you?
I'm usually working on craft projects for either my new book (or as a contribution to another book or magazine), updating Hello Sandwich or working on my next Tokyo Guide. On a good day I sneak out to my local gym to take a Japanese aerobics lesson (haha this can be interesting with my limited Japanese language!).
Where do you turn to for inspiration?
Blogs, Japanese craft books, stationery stores in Tokyo, local artists exhibitions and Japanese magazines.
What has been your most interesting project to date?
Definitely working on my own Japanese craft book with Japanese publisher BNN. That was a pretty incredible experience. My editor understands English perfectly, but rarely speaks it, so she would speak to me in Japanese, and I would reply mostly in English with a little Japanese but somehow we made a book together! I still smile when I walk into book shops here in Japan and see my book sitting there.
The ultimate song to work to?
I love all music by Nagoya-based band Lullatone. When I'm making craft I always have Lullatone playing in the background.
Best part about what you do?
Being able to live in this incredible city and do something creative with freedom.
What would be your dream creative project?
To have a Hello Sandwich Craft TV show!
Favourite city in the world?
Tokyo!
Where is your favourite escape?
I really enjoyed a trip to Langkawi a few years back. I don't often take those types of 'relaxing' pool-side holidays but they are very therapeutic.
Favourite way to spend a Saturday?
A sleep in, breakfast with Mr Y, and then either bike riding around Tokyo with Mr Y and discovering new places or spending the afternoon looking through craft books in Shinjuku's Kinokuniya and then the stationery floor at Tokyu Hands.
What was your most memorable meal?
We recently went to Takayama at the end of my book promotion trip and stayed in a gorgeous little Ryokan. Each night they would bring us a beautiful dinner with many small dishes such as sushi, pickles, rice, nabe, salad and tofu. Everything was gorgeously presented and mindfully arranged on our table by staff in traditional Japanese dress.
