Design
April 8, 2015
SOMEONE’S GARDEN: Daisuke Nishimura & Asako Tsurusaki Interview (Part 1)
Daisuke Nishimura and Asako Tsurusaki create the free paper and website “SOMEONE’S GARDEN.” We asked them about the inspiration behind their journey, carrying the spirit of KENZO PARFUMS.
Text by Nanajio TamuraPhotos by Kaoru Kitahara
—You developed a project called “FLOWER BY YOU” through “SOMEONE’S GARDEN.” Could you tell us about it?
NishimuraIt’s a project to connect artists and creators across Europe by carrying the poppy, the icon of KENZO PARFUMS, and creating a path of red flowers between countries.
TsurusakiWe made over 300 paper flowers in Japan. We handed them out to so many people that we almost ran out.
—Did the project originate from you two?
NishimuraIt’s a so-called tie-up project. However, our relationship with the KENZO PARFUMS staff isn’t a dry business transaction discussing corporate benefits. They actively embrace what we want to do, and are very tolerant regarding creativity.
TsurusakiEven with projects before “FLOWER BY YOU,” we were never outright rejected.
NishimuraWe’ve experienced many tie-ups with other companies, but perhaps there aren’t any people as understanding and kind as them (laughs).
—How did you first connect with KENZO PARFUMS?
NishimuraWhen the fragrance KENZOAMOUR was released in 2006, we were in charge of creating an online gallery. That was probably the very first time. After that, we created SOMEONE’S GARDEN and featured an interview with Patrick Guedj in our first issue.
—KENZO PARFUMS’s highly skilled Creative Director! That’s quite a project.
NishimuraOur local staff conducted the interview. He travels all over the world, so even the Paris head office staff said they couldn’t get hold of him. He’s an incredible person.
TsurusakiWe haven’t met Patrick ourselves, but the Japanese staff who moved the project forward also respect the world that Patrick created. So, I believe they provide the same level of support as if we were meeting him directly.
—What was your image of KENZO PARFUMS?
TsurusakiMy mother liked it. When I was little, there weren’t any perfumes, but I clearly remember her using cosmetics with Art Deco-style packaging.
NishimuraIt has a sense of being a long-established brand. It has secured a firm position as a Japanese brand run by Japanese people. Yes, you know the Soen Award, right? It’s a fashion show for young creators. Kenzo Takada’s name was on the list of judges, so I went to see it, but he wasn’t there, even though he was the representative judge. Wow, I was so impressed by such a prominent figure (laughs).
