言(language)＋葉 (leaves)＝言葉 (spoken word) explores how words and nature can be used as forms of expression. The illustrations created are visualizations of words from Waka poems written up to a thousand years ago, that aim to transcend time and language. According to the Kokinshu compilation of poems, Waka poetry is that which flows from the poet's heart through contact with beauties of nature or events of human life. These words intrigue all kinds of interpretations and meanings intended or not, by the poets. This project is a personal interpretation of those words - visually and through translation of language, a personal method of expression of the possible nuance intended by the poets.