Issey Miyake Releases Fourth Volume of Ikko Tanaka Series

COLLABORATION

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE WITH ISSEY MIYAKE AND IKKO TANAKA

WORDS

by KRISTOPHER FRASER

PHOTOS

COURTESY of ISSEY MIYAKE

Storied Japanese luxury brand Issey Miyake is releasing the fourth volume of the Ikko Tanaka Issey Miyake collection featuring motifs from the works of Ikko Tanaka, the renowned graphic designer whose body of work has had a major impact on the history of design around the world.

Volume one, debuted in 2016 as an expression of Issey Miyake’s respect for Tanaka’s works his gratitude for the many inspirations. Existing examples of the original works were considered, and their colors faithfully replicated in the production of this series. The objective is 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 form.

The time, two of Tanaka’s works have been chosen as motifs: Continuous Symbol and Circle. Focusing on the dynamism and humor of each work, as well as the feeling of warmth they impart, various materials were carefully selected for the details of each work, and used in simple sport designs.

Issey Miyake

X Ikko Tanaka

By expressing the powerful works of Ikko Tanaka, who continued his challenge to constantly create new value in the form of clothing, Issey Miyake wants people to recognize the ideal form of design along with its sense of fun.

The Continuous Symbol Series was inspired by the dynamic space of the Otemae Art Center designed by Tadao Ando. Compared to previous graphic artworks, in which unstructured hand-drawn forms were often used, this series contains geometric shapes that are neatly arranged to express humor and warmth through minimalist monotone elements.

The Circle Series is quite literally based on a circle. Black is the central motif, in contrast with the subdued color tones of the background, emphasize the sense of motion the circle possesses. Furthermore, the hand-draw lines and colorful fragments within the main motif create a vibrant and warm impression.

Issey Miyake Circle Series

“The Circle Series is quite literally based on a circle. Black is the central motif, in contrast with the subdued color tones of the background, emphasize the sense of motion the circle possesses.”

Issey Miyake Symbol Series