As previously announced, three of yoshiokubo's works are on display at the special exhibition "LOVE Fashion - When I Dress Up Myself," organized by the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK) and the Kyoto Costume Institute (KCI), which began on September 13th. I took the opportunity to go and see them in person, and they were quite impressive.
A work that depicts a mysterious scene in which a ghost appears to possess a person.
The theme for the Spring/Summer 2023 season is "HITODAMA (Hitodama)," and the collection features items that are sublimated using techniques inspired by traditional Japanese "transparent techniques" such as openwork and kumiko, as well as colorful, transparent textiles.
The pieces he created for the collection are a bear, a Kongo Rikishi, and a lion dance, all of which are over two meters in length. They are masterpieces of extreme difficulty, sewn entirely out of tulle.
It's truly impressive to see all three lined up!
I was so moved and it reminded me of the hard days of production, so I immediately took a photo and sent it to the pattern maker and sewing team on LINE saying, "This is how it's displayed!" It was a really hard work, but it was a moment that made it all worthwhile.
At the launch runway show, we had models wear the pieces, allowing people to enjoy the beauty of the intricately layered tulle, but this time, we will be displaying them on torsos, which will give people a different perspective.
I was contacted about this exhibition exactly one year ago. I never imagined that my clothes would be exhibited in a museum, so seeing them on display felt like a valuable experience. What's more, I was blessed with this opportunity just as my brand was celebrating its 20th anniversary, and my parents were able to see them, so I think it was a great way to show my appreciation to them.
Next to my work is a work by that person from that time!
I was also surprised to see that the piece exhibited next to mine was the same one I had seen in Paris when I was just starting out! At the time, I was simply amazed at the three-dimensional piece made with multiple accordion pleats, thinking, "Wow! How did they make that?", so it was quite moving to see that piece next to my own clothes.
There were also many other items on display that transcended eras and tastes, all with a fashion theme, including works by well-known fashion designers, gorgeous 18th century dresses, and pieces that resembled modern art.
It's rare to have the chance to see this much up close. After Kyoto, the exhibition will travel to Kumamoto and Tokyo, so fashion lovers and even those who aren't should definitely take this opportunity to visit and feast their eyes.
■Details
"LOVE Fashion - Time to dress myself up"
Organized by: The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, and Kyoto Costume Institute (KCI)
Kyoto Venue: The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
Date: September 13th (Friday) – November 24th (Sunday), 2024
Kumamoto Venue: Contemporary Art Museum, Kumamoto
Date: December 21, 2024 (Saturday) to March 2, 2025 (Sunday)
Tokyo Venue: Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery
Date: April 16, 2025 (Wednesday) - June 22, 2025 (Sunday)
Kyoto Costume Institute (KCI) Official Instagram
KCI Kyoto Costume Institute Official YouTube Channel