I am delighted to introduce you to Saori weaving and it's exceptional success in discovering and encouraging self-expression through creativity in individuals, particularly those with disabilities.
It was at the 1989 VSA arts International Festival in Washington, DC that this remarkable method of weaving was first presented to an international audience. Since that time, more than 40 organizations around the world have developed Saori weaving programs, many of them associated with VSA arts.

The Saori method, depicted as weaving without rules or restrictions, shares with VSA arts the belief that the potential for expression and creativity lies within each of us. All that is needed to bring that creativity forward is encouragement, opportunity, and recognition.
Saori, Self-discovery Through Free Weaving is more than a guide to weaving. It is a tribute to the Saori artists, their families, friends, teachers, and community workers who recognized their talents and encouraged their aspirations along the way.

VSA arts of Japan's vision and leadership in sharing the Saori method with others in the VSA arts affiliate network have established Saori as a philosophy that advocates "disabled" does not mean "unable." If just given the chance, all of us can reveal ourselves genuinely and beautifully through the arts. Saori presents us this opportunity in a unique way.

I have had the privilege of seeing how Saori weaving has positively affected the lives of individuals working with VSA arts affiliate organizations. By integrating Saori weaving into their arts activities, affiliate organizations have given inspiration for lifelong learning experiences and enriched their communities. Just as each individual is encouraged to pursue true freedom of expression, each VSA arts affiliate has chosen a distinct way of sharing the Saori method in their country. Even with this diversity, they remain linked in a special brotherhood that continues to share their weaving experiences.

When I traveled to Quebec, Canada in the summer of 2000, I saw the work of a talented young woman who had learned the Saori method during one of the many exchanges between the VSA arts affiliates of Japan and Quebec. Through her continued work in Saori, she developed from a deeply troubled individual struggling with emotional difficulties into a confident artist able to express herself eloquently through weaving. She has a great love of sharing her unique abilities and techniques at community events, and she has found a career path beginning with entering the textile program at Concordia University.

Saori has developed differently in the country of India where the VSA arts affiliate has adapted the method to incorporate recycled materials that are readily accessible. The children participating in the community arts programs of Very Special Arts India weave fabric made from colored yarn and pieces of plastic shopping bags to create every manner of wallet and handbag. The sale of these items supports future programming efforts of the organization and allows the children continued access to skill-developing activities.

The world of Saori is a dynamic example of VSA arts' goal to move beyond creating one-time experiences by fostering the enduring values of community and sharing in ways that the arts can uniquely provide.
My brother, President John F. Kennedy said, "Behind the storm of daily conflict and crisis, the artist continues the quiet work of the centuries, building bridges of experience between peoples, reminding man of the university of his feelings, and desires, and despairs, and reminding him that the forces that unite are deeper than those that divide." The Saori method certainly has made this a reality. We salute Misao Jo, Saori founder, and all those who continue using Saori today.

Thank you for sharing the Saori philosophy with VSA arts. Rest assured that the sharing continues.