Yuma TomokiAs I was thinking about Ms. Kurigami, Jiro Shirasu suddenly came to mind.

—Mr. Shirasu?

TomokiPerhaps it’s because I recently read "Jiro Shirasu: The Man Who Carried the Occupation." I was impressed by his tenacity as a negotiator, facing off against figures like MacArthur and GHQ as a representative of a defeated Japan during the post-war turmoil. I thought, there’s no one like him, he’s so cool. I feel that Mr. Shirasu and Ms. Kurigami share something in common during the process of drafting the Japanese constitution. They have conviction. I want to be like that too.

A man with a core.

TomokiIndeed, working with cool people teaches me a lot. I feel like I’m being tested each time to see if I can commit wholeheartedly to creating something good. I want to continue working with Ms. Kurigami regardless of age, and I want to strive to be able to converse with her as an equal.

—Are there any other men you find remarkable?

TomokiRyuichi Sakamoto has an incredible focus. Although my interaction with him on set differs from my work with Ms. Kurigami, as he has requested my styling services, his concentration is extraordinary.

—Concentration.

TomokiThat can also be said of Hidetoshi Nakata; they possess something special. They are geniuses. In Japan, the term "genius type" can sometimes feel a bit eccentric, but I believe these are individuals who can effortlessly accomplish what ordinary people must strive to do with basic effort. When Mr. Sakamoto plays the piano, or when Mr. Nakata plays in a match, their focus in moments of competition is astounding. It’s not something you can simply imitate, even if you try. It’s thrilling to witness up close.

—I see. I think I understand the feeling.

TomokiWhile I lack the theory and experience in both piano and soccer, I am moved when I watch their performances and play.

—Then, a message for photographer Kazumi Kurigami?

TomokiI hope she continues to be a wonderful person. In my own work, I can’t style something that is completely detached from my own life. It’s built up within me, and the unified form or the existence itself is the styling. Seeing Ms. Kurigami, I feel that this exists at an even higher quality. How should I put it… it’s like, 'She’s here!' It’s a joy to meet people like that. It reassures me that I’m not wrong.