SAORI was created by a woman named Misao Jo who was born in Japan in 1913. From childhood through World War II and the reconstruction of Japan, to the modern technology era, she saw the world change in ways that honored standardization and mass production more than individuality and nature. In countries all around the world, people and ideas that did not fit into the mold were discounted and discarded. In response, she created a philosophy and creative expression technique in 1968 based on four slogans, and named it SAORI.
The Four Slogans and what they mean to me:
“Let us ponder the difference between people and machines.”
We create fabric that is “full of humanity”, that no machine could duplicate.
“Let us journey beyond our imaginations.”
We have untapped abilities and creativity within us.
“Let us look out through eyes that shine.”
When we open our eyes and minds, we discover new possibilities.
“Let us learn from everyone in the group.”
We are all students and teachers. ‘Everyone’ includes all ages, all physical, mental, emotional, and skill abilities, and all life experiences.
