Edition of 6, water-based woodblock prints mokuhanga, mica on mulberry paper, 2018, Japan

A persimmon in Buddhism is said to symbolise transformation, and six of them signify enlightenment. The symbolism reveals that an unripe persimmon's sharp and bitter taste represents ignorance. As the fruit matures, it becomes sweet and indicates wisdom that follows transformation.

I made this print during an Autumn residency at MI-LAB Japan before embarking on the 88 Temple pilgrimage around the island of Shikoku. I always loved seeing persimmon hang from the trees when I lived in Japan, their vibrant orange skin reminding me of Buddhist robes. When I made this print I had no idea what they symbolised, I was just interested in how people hung them from their verandas and let them ferment in the Autumn sun, patiently awaiting their eventual sweetness.