And another..... Chinese Kung Hei Fat choi board

I used a lucky symbol, from an old worn Chinese textile to create a variation on a current trend spots for my first New Year board posted a few days ago.  This one uses the same symbol but as a minor player when combined with a very detailed drawing of my Bonsai tree. It is therefore 'oriental' as it combines both Chinese and Japanese elements, although much of Japanese culture is derived from the Chinese. Bonsai trees were always available in HK-which is why   Ialways have them in my house, especially at Chinese New Year.  I was really pleased with my drawing but love it with the gold embossing, which brings out the woody nature of the trunk and means the whole pattern can be felt by a blind/partially sighted person.

I have used gold and red papers and combined the design with coloured Oriental style cords and knots as well as replica ancient Chinese coins.The latter are not only decorative in their own right but also fit the concept as money is a very important part of Chinese New Year, with prosperity and good luck being required from the gods for the coming year. Blossom trees (see a previous post and Chinese/Japanese/Oriental design cherry blossom) are used as we use xmas trees, flowers are bought , feasts eaten with carp/gold fish and oranges being particularly auspicious, and gifts, particularly money, given, as well as new red  (lucky colour)outfits being worn.

It's a bit late for this year but ....Kung Hei Fat Choi for next year and all the new and wonderful things I hope it brings us all/we will have done by then, after our degrees have finished!!!!!:-)