TOMODACHI Generation: Yoshinori Momiyama

About Yoshinori Momiyama

Q1: Why did you apply to the TOMODACHI-UNIQLO Fellowship?

Since studying at “St. Martin’s” (Central St. Martins University of the Arts London), I enjoyed seeing the graduate collections from various schools, especially the Masters’ of Fine Arts collection at “Parsons” (Parsons The New School for Design), which I would check every year. I especially wanted to study there because, beyond artistic expression, they provide the opportunity to study fashion which best balances creativity and wearability. Though I was initially concerned by the high tuition, the TOMODACHI-UNIQLO Fellowship provided me the means to pursue my studies at “Parsons” (Parsons School of Design).

Q2: What are you specifically excited about learning at Parsons?

When I am at “Parsons” (Parsons School of Design), I want to learn methods for creating clothing that is both creative and wearable. Up until now, my studies have largely focused purely on conceptualization, frequently resulting in avant-garde or impractical clothing. Thought it was very enjoyable, I plan on spending my next two years studying designs that are both creative and pragmatic.

Q3: What is your goal after completing the program?

I am already working with a group of artists and musicians put out various projects, and this is important to me, so I would like to continue working with them after these two years. Furthermore, during my time in New York, I want to take advantage of the chance to collaborate with foreign creators and create new products to be displayed internationally, as so far I have only been displaying in Japan.

Q4: As you will study in the United States as a representative of Japan, how would you like to contribute to the U.S.-Japan relationship as a bridge between the two countries?

I hope that my work provides context as to what kind of country Japan is and what our lives consist of. When I observe the works of my favorite designers and artists, I pay attention to the concept, but I also feel that taking the country they’re from and the culture they were raised in into account yield meaning greater than the sum of its parts. Thus, I wish to create art which aptly conveys Japanese culture and the experience of living here to those in America as my contribution to this relationship.