The IKKO TANAKA ISSEY MIYAKE collection, that debuted in 2016 as an expression of Issey Miyake’s respect for Ikko Tanaka’s works and his gratitude for the many inspirations, is now at the third volume. The project features motifs from the works of the renowned graphic designer born in 1930 in Nara City, who had a major impact on the history of design around the world. The movement of the wearer of pleats materials and sporty coats breathes new life into the graphics and colours replicated in the production of this series. To thoroughly replicate the image that his three motifs Gradation (letters and characters), Work: Q, and Rope exude, they took utmost care in selecting the materials. The objective was not to use these works simply as motifs; but rather to create vibrant clothing full of energy to intensify the appeal of Tanaka’s works when worn in a three-dimensional format. Taking note of the image of “movement” that each work imparts, such as moving dynamically, floating, and flowing fluidly, we focused on creating a simple design that maximizes the worldview of Tanaka’s works, and the elegant expressions of fabric that flows with the movement of the wearer’s body. Up to his sudden death in 2002, Ikko Tanaka, one of Japan’s top graphic designers, continued his challenge to create new value at all time. Tanaka’s unique works incorporate into Western modern design pre-modern Japanese common aesthetic senses exemplified by traditional craft, Rimpa school and Ukiyo-e, and those have caught on as the modern expression. IKKO TANAKA ISSEY MIYAKE is the embodiment of Issey Miyake’s everlasting thoughts such as these. By expressing his powerful works in the form of clothing, he wishes many people to recognize the ideal form of design along with its sense of fun. Photo: Francis Giacobetti
