Hey everyone, I hope life has been treating you well. Last month I was able to attend Sebastian Masuda's lecture wit Tiff at Japan Society called Kawaii Meets Art and Fashion. I had to bust my butt to get there after work, but it was SO worth it. It was wonderful hearing about Sebastian's journey throughout his career. As someone that is getting into Japanese fashion, it was amazing to learn about someone that is revered in the fashion.
Sebastian Masuda also known as "King of Harajuku" is an icon of Harajuku and kawaii fashion and culture. He opened a store for his label 6%DOKIDOKI in 1995. It is the only remaining store from the early era of Harajuku fashion. He is also known for being the art director of Kyary Kyary Pyamu's hit smash PonPonPon music video. Sebastian is also an artist and has art exhibitions throughout the world.
He spoke in Japanese which was wonderful practice for me. There was a lovely translated that did a wonderful job conveying his feelings and thoughts. Sebastian talked about using the concepts of shock and color in his work. He's heavily influenced by Harajuku fashion and culture, because it's where different cultures come together. The fashion contains a mix of different styles and age groups. He also talked about what kawaii was. He explained that kawaii is creating your own very small personal universe, and it cannot be obstructed by anyone. This private space doesn't have to be colorful; it's anything you imagine. This resonated with me because when I first came across j fashion, I saw it as a way to express myself and the many sides of my personality. He also highlighted the importance social media has played in connecting others and spreading Harajuki and kawaii fashion and culture.
