Part 8: Art and Products Through the Lens of Fashion (2)
Art and Product Through the Lens of Fashion (Part 2)
Despite being a fashion brand, Bless consistently evokes an environment and artistic sensibility that surrounds lifestyle.
It's intriguing how they approach concepts beyond the fixed notions of typical product designers, at times presenting modular furniture for small-space living (dubbed 'Permanent Living Organisms' in No. 22), or crafting hammocks from fine mink fur.
Furthermore, their use of installations as a means of expression can be seen as a contemporary trend among fashion designers.
From Fashion to Installation
Bless, which began its activities in 1997, gained recognition for its artistic merit. In '98, their work was featured in Martin Margiela's collection, followed by projects for Zucca, Levi's, and the Parisian boutique Colette, drawing attention within the fashion world.
They have since undertaken numerous installations.
Last summer, an installation featuring countless framed books was held at Zucca in Aoyama.
The design for a book compiling Bless's work, scheduled for publication that autumn, was affixed to the double-page spreads of used books and then framed. Upon reviewing this book, which was published later, one can glimpse the diverse range of Bless's activities.
Concurrently with the installation at Zucca, a large-scale exhibition was also held in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Here in Japan, they participated in the 'EXTRA SMALL' exhibition at The National Art Center, Tokyo, which was introduced previously, and the exhibition 'SPACE FOR YOUR FUTUR - Re-engineering the DNA of Art and Design' currently running from October 27th to January 20th at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo.
Bless's activities are likely to continue attracting significant attention.