ISSEY MIYAKE “On Washi”

The CREATION SPACE at ISSEY MIYAKE SEMBA presents a special installation “On Washi” from ISSEY MIYAKE.

The process of ISSEY MIYAKE’s design and making explores ma, the unfilled space between a piece of cloth and the wearer’s body. Washi, traditional Japanese paper, is one of the materials with which the brand works to expand the possibilities ma holds within.

Since ancient times, washi has been an indispensable resource of everyday living in Japanese culture, as its life cycle begins from and returns to the land. To understand and work with washi—like having a dialogue with the material—reflects the nature of the brand and aligns with its engagement in integrating traditional Japanese crafts into clothing for modern lifestyles.

This exhibition presents an original washi installation built upon the one presented in Paris at the presentation of the Spring Summer 2024 collection, created together with artist Yoshihisa Tanaka, along with a video documentary about the installation in Paris and a video interview of Tanaka and the designer of ISSEY MIYAKE, Satoshi Kondo.

The washi created in this way is the product of the brand’s continued research and development together with craftspeople, engineers, and manufacturers around Japan. The way the washi moves and transforms organically, as it responds to changes in its surroundings, suggests an element of life. This nature of fluidity and playfulness—always revolving around the wearer’s body—is intrinsic to ISSEY MIYAKE’s design and making.

Installations in conjunction with this will be held at the CUBE of ISSEY MIYAKE GINZA / 445.