This is a previously unpublished story from my trip to Tokyo in 2014. I was introduced to Nori through my friend Joanna from the rather fantastic Champ Magazine . I’m excited to announce that I am working on a new book with Frame, featuring Japanese creatives and I will hopefully revisit Nori at his studio so that we can get a fresh take on his amazing work, with new in-depth interviews by an author on Japanese design. We hope you enjoy this little ‘preview’ of this exciting new project and if you would like us to keep you posted on the book, please subscribe here:
HOW DOES THE CITY IN WHICH YOU LIVE INSPIRE YOU?
I live in the fashion capital, Omotesando. I’m the type of person who always likes to be in the “battlefield.”
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT I WOULD BE SURPRISED TO FIND IN YOUR SPACE?
I think of my atelier as a reflection of my identity. The space is very natural to me, but it might be fresh to people who visit my atelier. I also have Japanese antique pieces in my art collection.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
The capital of high-end fashion. Being surrounded by fashion brands from all over the world makes me realize how Japan serves as one of the largest fashion consuming nation in the world.
DO YOU WORK AND LIVE IN THE SAME SPACE, IF SO HOW DOES THAT AFFECT YOUR WORK?
I never switch myself to “OFF” mode ― I actually like keeping myself “ON” at all times. Perhaps, Japanese people work too hard.
WHAT CAN YOU SEE OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOWS?
There is green outside my window. You sometimes need a comfort when you live a city life.
DESCRIBE A REAL LIFE MUNDANE SITUATION THAT INSPIRES YOU!
The Japanese culture inspires me. I do not praise what has gone in the past; I always refer to the culture today, where I also discover the classical roots behind.
WHAT THEMES DO YOU PURSUE IN YOUR WORK?
To translate and introduce contemporary Japanese culture to the world.
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM PROJECT?
My dream is to start my own foundation that would contribute to pass on and develop the Japanese culture; it would also serves as a foundation to support young artists.
FAVORITE SONG/BAND WHILE WORKING?
T. Rex, Roxy Music
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN AND FROM WHOM?
“If you have something that you like or want, try creating it on your own.”― something that my mother told me when I was a little.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHEN YOU’RE NOT CREATING?
The state of not creating is actually a creative action.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ARTIST’S TOOL?
Conversation.
WHAT MINDSET/MOOD DO YOU MAKE YOUR BEST ART/WORK?
Being objective at all times, and in a sense, to stay empty.
Where They’ is a visual documentation of the creative environments of artist & people, that meet during my travels, of homes and studios.
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