http://www.asianart.org/index.html
Conceived by acclaimed artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, this special exhibition spotlights the sculptural essence of contemporary Japanese fashion through the works of Rei Kawakubo, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, and others. Debuting alongside the 21 innovative creations of these celebrated designers are four never-before-seen black-and-white photographs by Sugimoto that capture the garments’ shadows, lines, and fullness of form. (October 12, 2007 – January 6, 2008)
You get two beautifully produced brochures full of useful information about techniques and materials. The brochure explains, “In an effort to respect and not distract from the sculptural aesthetic of the garments on view, the Asian Art Museum's installation will be sleek and minimal, with careful lighting to heighten the effect of the shadows.” The lightening was certainly minimal and I felt that a few strategically placed lights could have heightened the sculptural effect of the garments. I was impressed by the imagination of the various designers who really did combine traditional Japanese clothing styles with a very modern sensibility. However, one question remains – who wears these things? Who CAN wear these things? I remember seeing a book in the huge bookstore in Japantown, which had a photo of Faye Dunaway (among others) wearing one of Miyake’s creations. The effect was stunning, especially so since she was also wearing Kabuki style makeup, but I could not imagine any place where one could actually wear such a costume.
Still, it’s always a treat to visit the Asian and see what new works are up and revisit my “old” favorites, especially the images of the Hindu deities Shiva and Parvati, (1000–1100) with their sensual bodies, the Japanese tea garden room with the current exhibit of baskets, Korean and Persian ceramics, the netsuke and the scroll painting.
Then, lunch in their cafeteria, which is not only beautifully designed but also serves good food with no overhead loud, head banging music.
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