Feel and Think: A New Era of Tokyo Fashion

By Sharne Wolff

Asked to think ‘Tokyo fashion’, your mind could leap anywhere from the innovative aesthetic of Issey Miyake or Yohji Yamamoto to the bright 80s pastels and doll-like frocks worn by Sweet Lolita devotees. As Japan grapples with the effects of globalisation, Feel and Think takes a look at the current fusion of contemporary art and fashion from five avant-garde Japanese designers. The exhibition was first displayed at the Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery in 2011 and five of the original ten brands have been selected to showcase in Sydney –  ANDREALARGE, SASQUATCHfabrix, writtenafterwards, mintdesigns and THEATRE PRODUCTS.  Drawing variously on the unique history of traditional Japanese costume, twentieth century ‘modern’ and vanguard street style, each designer has attempted to answer the question – what is fashion?

As a frequent visitor to the country (a whopping 47 visits in 20 years) Dr Gene Sherman, Executive Director of Sherman Contemporary Art Foundation, is not just a fan and wearer but a serious collector and long–time advocate for Japanese fashion. As a consequence of her enthusiasm SCAF, in conjunction with the National Art School, is hosting this Event (think capital E). Feel & Think is exhibited over both sites – the NAS Gallery will host the art installations, while SCAF presents a program of film screenings, a pop-up shop, Culture+Ideas discussion series, and a runway show in partnership with the University of Technology, Sydney.

Until August 13

Sherman Contemporary Art Foundation, Paddington in conjunction with the National Art School Gallery, Darlinghurst

http://sherman-scaf.org.au

Pic: YOKOYAMA Daisuke, ARAKI Katsuki [Wonder Worker Guerrilla Band] SASQUATCHfabrix, 2011. Various dimensions. Courtesy Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery. Photo: KIOKU Keizo.