My daughter and I did this class together. We were supposed to go to Japan last year...but I had to wait for so much required paperwork that a year flew by and it didn't happen. So, we did this class which was like an artsy trip to Japan. We both enjoyed learning about the patterns and the Maneki- neko story and meaning behind it. This is my daughter's maneki-neko. I love it! We've been doing watercolors together for a few years now and I'm enjoying watching how well she has control over her watercolor skills and her color sense! Her calligraphy that Miwa taught us is below. She way enjoyed all we did in this class, finding all parts of it quite meditative.

As for me....my watercolor skills are not so in control yet. I still way enjoyed this class despite that.  Geometry is not my strong point and I couldn't find a 60 degree angle on my triangle, so however this pattern turned out I'm just glad it's finished.

So, there's this concept in life called "Frequency Illusion." It's when you are made aware of something...and once you are aware of this new-to-you item or situation...you start noticing it EVERYWHERE! (Thank you for that, Miwa!)

I was cleaning out my kitchen cabinets and didn't realize I owned this mug. Now I use it all the time cuz I have to study all the maneki-nekos on it.

Then I saw all these maneki-nekos on Amazon and got a set of two. They're solar powered and the paw waves up and down when it's sunny or light enough in the room. I tried to upload a video of the paw moving up and down, but it wouldn't load, so here's a still shot

. I took the other solar maneki-neko to where I teach exercise...and wouldn't you know....I got two very awesome new students! Maneki-neko's work!

Here is a sloppy palette trial and some thumbnail attempts. 

Below is a smiley-er maneki-neko. I could spend hours online studying all the Japanese patterns including the ones Miwa brought to our awareness. Thank you for teaching such a cool and inspiring class, Miwa! It's one of those experiences you'll never forget!