Kyoko’s Contemporary Boro Creations

Kyoko Kimura Morgan’s work with boro (boromono) textiles transforms what was once practical necessity into expressive art.

Boro—fabrics repeatedly patched and mended from worn-out clothing or household items—originated in rural Japan out of scarcity. Today, under artists like Kyoko, it becomes a statement about sustainability and the stories embedded in cloth.

What is Boro (Boromono)

• Boro (ぼろ), from boroboro, means “tattered” or “patched,” referring to textiles endlessly mended to extend their life.
• Traditionally made of hemp or cotton—often indigo-dyed—these garments were reinforced with layers of cloth and sashiko (刺し子) stitching.
• Rooted in mottainai (勿体無い), the philosophy of “regret for waste,” boro reflects respect for resources and mindful reuse.

Why Boro Matters Now

In an age of fast fashion and disposability, boro stands as a counterpoint—valuing repair, longevity, and memory. Kyoko’s art makes the hidden visible: the stitches, the labor, and the quiet dignity of things once worn and mended.