If there’s one thing that can be said regarding Japanese fashion, it’s pure art. Whether looking at the costumes of the geishas or modern Japanese apparel and accessories – the attention to detail, and thoughtful marriage of innovation and function is simply unparalleled. I was lucky to get the chance to experience the evolution of Japanese design at the Future Beauty : The Tradition of Reinvention in Japanese Design exhibit featured at the National Museum of Modern Art in Kyoto.
Curated by the director of the Kyoto Costume Institute, Akiko Fukai, each installment in the exhibition was dramatic, breath-taking, and memorable.
I first heard about the exhibit through Instagram when it was happening in Seattle, and was bummed to be missing it! While visiting Tokyo this month, I decided to take a side trip to Kyoto. After doing some research on the fashion scene there, it turned out to be a mere twist of fate that the fantastic curation of nearly 100 memorable pieces from the history of Japanese design was going to be in Kyoto during my visit. Talk about a lucky girl!
Room after room of works from celebrated designers such as Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, Issey Miyake, Kenzo Takada, Junya Watanabe, Jun Takahashi and others, videos of runway shows, artist photographs, magazines and ephemera designed by renowned international artists like Gilbert and George and Cindy Sherman were on display for my fashion designer friend and me to sink our teeth into.
Considering I’m a state-of-the-art museum photo sneaker/taker, I managed to score a few key shots to share my experience with you! There is plenty more to see, so if you’re in Kyoto and have the chance to see this spectacular exhibit, it’s definitely one that should not be missed.
Written by Jacqueline Chambers
Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.
