While focusing on the soon-to-be-released "CRYSTAL DECORATE mastermind JAPAN BE@RBRICK 400%" at 2G, we conducted an email interview with Mr. Honma about his recent activities. What are his thoughts on craftsmanship in the current post-pandemic era?

"mastermind JAPAN," which has consistently focused on "Made in Japan," incorporating Japanese materials, traditional techniques, and cutting-edge technology into its ready-to-wear collections and presenting them to the world. At OPENERS, we interviewed the designer at the end of the year before last,Masashi Honmaand he spoke about his firm principles as a pioneer of luxury street style. Now, with the release of a new product, we have asked him for another interview.

Among his profound statements, one that resonates anew after the past year of the pandemic is the reason why the word "Prosperity" is written on the back of the mastermind JAPAN BE@RBRICK, a collaboration with MEDICOM TOY.

"It's a phrase I like. It's not about my own prosperity, but a positive wish that our customers who choose this product will prosper even more. Especially since fashion can only exist in peace, I think it's a beautiful phrase to use," Mr. Honma says.

CRYSTAL DECORATE mastermind JAPAN BE@RBRICK 400%
The mastermind JAPAN BE@RBRICK, with its trademark "skull" and the word "Prosperity" on its back, exudes a unique presence. The latest iteration is a masterpiece, individually hand-decorated by the crystal decoration specialists at LIGHTS STYLE. LIGHTS STYLE was founded in 2004 by designer Kyoko Doi as a specialty store for custom crystal decorations. In 2007, they opened their Ginza store in the Nishi-Ginza Department Store in Tokyo's Ginza. They have since expanded with pop-up stores in department stores nationwide, reaching a wide customer base. This beautifully sparkling BE@RBRICK is a treasure for a lifetime, a piece befitting adults who have mastered luxury.
Size | Approx. 280mm in height
Price | ¥1,000,000 (excluding tax)
Sales Method | Available at 2G TOKYO and 2G OSAKA.
*Limited quantity available. Please forgive us if it sells out.
Release Date | Scheduled for release in March 2021
BE@RBRICK TM & ©️ 2001-2021 MEDICOM TOY CORPORATION. All rights reserved.

──The mastermind JAPAN 2021 S/S "romantic" and mastermind WORLD 2021 S/S "RHAPSODY" collections recently launched. Could you tell us about this season's themes?

Regarding the themes, I choose words that can symbolize my mood at the time each season. Therefore, I want people to feel whatever they wish about the theme, as it represents my feelings for that season.

──The fashion industry has been particularly hard hit by the pandemic, but why do you think mastermind JAPAN continues to perform well?

I don't know the reason, but I am always grateful to our customers.

──Since the pandemic, have you noticed any changes in customer behavior, such as overseas customer trends or the demand for e-commerce? Please share any observations.

I feel we have entered an era where those who don't genuinely commit to craftsmanship will be eliminated.

──Were there any particularly memorable collaborations last year?

The BE@RBRICK!

──What was your inspiration behind this BE@RBRICK?

mastermind always uses crystals every season, but this was the first time we used crystals for a BE@RBRICK, so I was very excited to see the final result.

──Did you start any new hobbies during the stay-at-home period? Please tell us what you've continued and what you've stopped.

I've been living my life as if there were no particular changes.

──After the pandemic subsides, what is the first thing you would like to do, Mr. Honma?

First, I want to go back to my hometown and relax.

──Could you give us a sneak peek at any upcoming projects mastermind JAPAN is planning?

Please continue to look forward to our collaborations with MEDICOM TOY!

2G TOKYO
Address | 15-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Shibuya PARCO 2F
Business Hours | 11:00 - 20:00
*Business hours are temporarily shortened to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Regular Holidays | Irregular
TEL | 03-6452-5003

2G OSAKA
Address | 1-8-3 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka Shinsaibashi PARCO 2F
Business Hours | 10:00 - 20:00
*Business hours are temporarily shortened to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Regular Holidays | Irregular
TEL | 06-4256-3997