its-tokyo-img_5378The Japanese ITS finalists was featured in an exhibition at the prestigious ISETAN Store in Shinjuku. The exhibition was conceived and strongly supported by Isetan buyer Mari Terasawa, who explains the reasons for this exhibition: “I knew ITS well before seeing the runway show this year in Trieste, and knew also that ITS always respected greatly the personality and creativity of young designers.”

In the 15-year history of International Talent Support, the talents hailing from Japan have continually captured the attention of the jurors. And the reasons can be easily traced in the unique beauty of their portfolios that illustrate a strong relationship between materials, colors and shapes.

Statistically speaking, Japan’s contribution to the ITS Seismography proves this observation. For the past 15 years, out of the 550 total finalists from 80 countries, 55 are Japanese. With over 700 enrolled designers. An even more interesting fact on the Japanese winners: as many as 20 out of 158.

The special exhibition at the Isetan Store in Shinjuku, Tokyo, features the work of the seven finalists of the past editions of ITS. Apparel, accessories, works of art and jewelry pieces can be viewed by public.

One of the creatives involved is Ryota Murakami who dedicated to ITS founder and creator Barbara Franchin a t-shirt that features her portrait.

Mikio Sakabe, winner of ITS#FIVE, also attending the event, perfectly puts into words: “I still think that was being at ITS was the most important experience in my life as a fashion designer. I could see so many creations by different designers in one single place, and even now I sometime visit Trieste as a teacher of Coconogacco. I still feel the excitement to meet new creators from all over the world. Isetan is one of the most important department stores in Japan, and this is a very good opportunity for the students to show their creations.”

The designers featured in the exhibition:

  • Mikio Sakabe – Selected pieces & Outfit from ITS#FIVE award-winning collection “Reversible Manga Tailoring”.
  • Yuima Nakazato – Selected accessories & ITS#EIGHT award-winning flat circular zipper boots.
  • Noriko Nakazato – “Fontana di Trevi” installation piece inspired by her ITS 2014 Jewelry style.
  • Ryota Murakami – Selected knitwear pieces & Barbara Franchin 2016 artwork printed t-shirt.
  • Hazuki Katagai – “Weapons of Love” Artwork project presented at ITS 2016.
  • Masaki Shimizu – “Egg Paradise” jewelry collection present at ITS 2016.
  • Chinami Tokizawa – “Sticky Jewelry” collection presented at ITS 2016.

Photos courtesy of ITS