Samidare Stationery
A Japanese American stationery brand, introducing the world of smart and innovative Japanese stationery to America. No more No. 2 pencils and pink rubber erasers that don't erase. Samidare stationery is a brand that's high quality, innovative, and versatile, whether you're a student going back to school or a working professional whose desk needs a boost of aesthetic and cleanliness.
Origin Story
Growing up Japanese American, I have encountered bullying many times. I received it from both Americans and Japanese people and I felt like I didn't belong in either world. When I went to Portland Japanese School every Saturday, I felt isolated by my peers. One group consisted of Japanese natives, and the others were American-born, ethnically mixed people. I looked like one group, but grew up and behaved like the other.
During my grade school days, there was a popular trend of cute stickers in Japan. The Japanese girls in my class would do it every week and one day I thought I'd join in. I brought in my "you tried" American stickers and asked if I could trade with them. Unfortunately, they told me my stickers were ugly and to go away. The Americanized mixed girls have already judged me based on my full Japanese looking appearance.
This was the first time I felt confused about my identity. I felt like my bicultural background was a disadvantage. It was only later in high school that I started to believe that it was one of my best qualities and that I DO belong in both worlds. I am the bridge between two cultures and am so proud to be Japanese American.
What does "samidare" mean?
"Samidare" (sah-mee-dah-reh) in Japanese is "五月雨," which literally translates to "rain in the month of May." The phrase has a special place in my heart because my name is May, I was born in the month of May, and I grew up in Portland, Oregon, where it rains a lot (and I mean A LOT). But in Japan, samidare is a beautiful, light, constant drizzle of rain almost throughout the whole month of May.
Logo Variation
The logo is a combination of Japanese and English. The top portion reads "samidare" in Japanese, and the direct english translation is placed underneath. With a minimal and sophisticated logo, it renders well to other colors and sizes, making it very versatile.
Why raindrops?
The raindrops represent the constant rain in Japan during the month of May, but it also symbolizes the constant rain in Portland, where I grew up, year round. Although not part of the wordmark, it will be the main pattern for the in-house brand.
Share your story
Everybody has a story to share, and all stories need a voice. It can be expressed in many different ways, not matter how big or small. I try my best to be the voice of equality, and to tackle global issues my art. You can share your story and express your beliefs too, whether it be through a painting or a tiny little sticker.
Products
Samidare stationery will have a broad range of stationery supplies, as well as signage, website, and instagram page. Its in-house brand will have the logo and rain pattern throughout the collection. Products range from erasers to pencil cases to desk calendars. Anything that you and your desk need, Samidare Stationery will provide!