KIMONO: KYOTO TO CATWALK
V&A, LONDON, south kensington

We were delighted to be invited to design the lighting for the UK's first major exhibition on kimono titled Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk; presenting the garment as a dynamic and constantly evolving icon of fashion. Both a timeless symbol of Japan, and an ever-evolving inspiration for new creations.

Working with designers Storey Studio the exhibition journeys from through a colour palette from the calming matcha green tea house through to seductive reds and pinks, reaching a crescendo of a kaleidoscopic mirror-clad room before opening out into a surreal white zen garden landscape with vibrant pops, each complementing shades woven into the garments on display. Atmospheric lighting and abstract soundscapes introduce an ephemeral layer that animate throughout the space, ushering the visitor yet further into this magical world. We designed into the set works recessed diffused light-boxes that created the layers of soft light created through Japanese screens. Showcases were animated with concealed horizon lights at the base creating luminous windows of display whilst adhering to low conservation levels on these sensitive objects. Vista were highlighted creating a rich dialogue between spaces and content.

Exhibition Design :  Storey Studio
Graphic Design : Claude D’Avoine
Sound Design : Coda to Coda