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April 15, 2015
FIAT | Fiat | Fumie Shibata vs. Fiat 500 (3) Moving objects exist within the realm of a designer's self-expression
Vol. 2 Fumie Shibata vs. FIAT 500
Chapter 3: Moving Objects Exist in the Realm of a Designer's Self-Expression
Fumie Shibata, an industrial designer, wants to tackle car exteriors. In this final installment of a three-part interview, we delve into the essence of car design and her expectations.
Fumie Shibata's representative work, the "OMRON Kenonkun" (left).
—Your representative work includes OMRON's digital thermometer. This suggests an image of working on household products, but are you interested in car design?
If I had the chance, I would definitely like to work on exteriors.
—When that chance arises, how would you approach a car like the FIAT 500?
As a designer, I would ideally want to create something entirely new.
Of course, I see the significance in cases like the FIAT 500. If it were me, I might try approaching it as if the past story had no relevance at all.
However, cars are indeed special. My approach to designing moving objects ultimately lies in the realm of the designer's self-expression. Furthermore, with cars, what is considered good is generally expensive, isn't it? There's a practical hierarchy where a 1 million yen car cannot truly defeat a 10 million yen car; it can't become the true champion.
—Is there a sense of urgency, a constant striving for something better?
But that's precisely why I always have the desire to break that value system.
This is a personal example, but I still cherish a Georg Jensen watch I bought a long time ago. It was a bit expensive for me at the time, but I loved the design. That's my champion wristwatch. In the world of watches, there are countless others that are superior. But when you buy something you feel is good for you, you experience immense satisfaction. The value and hierarchy determined by someone else's price can be instantly surpassed by the power of design.
—In the automotive world, similar examples occasionally emerge with small cars like the FIAT 500.
The best example is the "Smart." It felt like something that could break free from the conventional car mold. You eventually get tired of temporary champions. I want to transcend such hierarchical relationships through design.
As a designer who fulfills people's desire for a joyful daily life while maintaining a pragmatic outlook, and as a woman, I also want to value the sense of 'This is cute.'
—From that perspective, do you think the FIAT 500 can be a true champion?
It has great potential. It offers a unique atmosphere that other cars cannot replicate.