Yoshio Honjo Yumi Stynes as onna-musha (female samurai)

Yumi Stynes is a second-generation Japanese–Australian. She is an author, broadcaster, television presenter, food fanatic, fitness enthusiast and mother of four. Her podcast Ladies, we need to talk, a focus on women’s health and social issues, airs on ABC Radio.

Japanese-born, Sydney-based artist and tattooist Yoshio Honjo has depicted Stynes as an onna-musha (female samurai or warrior) to reflect her strength and influence. Onna-musha existed during Japan’s Kamakura period (1192–1333) and were exceptionally strong women who protected their family in battle. They were occasionally depicted in ukiyo-e woodblock prints, popular during the Edo period (1603–1867), from which Honjo draws much inspiration.

Honjo portrays Stynes as a dynamic force of nature and references their shared Japanese heritage. Dressed in a traditional kimono, Stynes strikes a popular kabuki pose. Her right hand is splayed as if summoning and projecting an inner power, and she bears a naginata, a weapon used by women during the Japanese feudal period, symbolising female virtue.

At the same time, Honjo captures Stynes’ individuality by painting her signature black-rimmed glasses and quaffed hair, while incorporating her favourite foods – southern rock lobster and figs – in the kimono pattern.