Today we’d like to introduce you to Hisako Cabell
Hi Hisako, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my journey into geisha henshin in March of 2024. I was inspired by my honeymoon to Japan in October of 2023 after a geisha makeover experience in Kyoto (a surprise gift by my husband). I have had an interest in geisha since I was little, and going to Kyoto to get the makeover experience at Gion AYA was a bucket list item of mine for a long time. They are located in a former okiya (geisha house) in Gion, the most famous geisha district (so it was a very immersive experience!). I was so inspired and so captivated by my experience there that I knew I had to learn how to do henshin myself when I returned to the states. When I returned to the US, I immediately started doing my research and collecting kimono, obi, and other items needed to do proper henshin (‘henshin’ is a Japanese word that means ‘to transform’. You dress as a geisha, but you are not a real geisha). I had to learn how to do the makeup and dress in kimono properly. I ‘debuted’ my new project that spring in March. (I even chose a formal kimono for my first look that is very similar to the ones real geisha use for their own debut as a full geisha!). Prior to getting involved in henshin, I was a cosplayer. I have since left the world of cosplay to focus entirely on geisha henshin. I have also begun to learn tea ceremony, Japanese dance, and eventually shamisen as a further extension of my passion for traditional Japanese art.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been quite a journey with many twists and turns! There have been times I have felt discouraged, but kept going because this is my passion and what gives me purpose! Geisha henshin is not the cheapest hobby to get involved in so to speak, so I needed to save a lot of money and work hard to get the proper items needed to be accurate and authentic. I think the biggest struggle along the way has been some disapproval from some people about what I do. Most people who have seen my work are very supportive, but occasionally there will be someone who is not very supportive or very negative. There is a misconception that you have to be Japanese to be a geisha henshin. This is not true! Anyone can participate in henshin, so long as you are accurate and respectful! There is a huge difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. Henshin (when done correctly and accurately) is absolutely cultural appreciation. One of my goals through henshin is to dispel this misinformation and showcase what henshin actually is!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Currently, I am an administrative assistant for a small tech company. But what I really specialize in and am known for is geisha henshin (and formerly cosplay!). I have been doing cosplay and costume work for about 11 years (and henshin for almost one year). I’ve always had a passion for makeup, wigs, and transforming into something else! My experience as a cosplayer eventually led me to the world of geisha henshin. I would say I am most proud of learning how to dress the part and being as accurate as possible! It take a lot of skill and practice to master dressing in kimono and applying the makeup, as well as an eye for detail.. I think what sets me apart from others is my dedication to strive for perfection, and going beyond dressing up by immersing myself in other traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, Japanese dance, and shamisen (much like a real geisha would do!).
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I think the biggest thing I have learned from the Covid-19 Crisis is that life is too short to not go live your dreams and do what you actually want to do. Don’t waste your life living for other people and their dreams. Live for you and your dreams.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehoustongeisha/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Houston-Geisha-61554657802138/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehoustongeisha
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehoustongeisha
