The black and white contrast and complex shapes in this noren grabbed my attention. I am lucky to live in Kyoto with a rich source of inspiration so close by. There is always balance in the designs used in temples in Japan. If a noren is displayed it means the place is open. They are used in many colors, varieties and functions from the amazing temple gates to the local izakaya doorway.

Does this make you hungry? I just finished designing and developing a unique little blog for my sister Romy and her partner in creation, Sarah. Ultra stylish photos and nice recipes for the home cook.
www.trotski-ash.com

Kimono on display at Buson Kyoto

Detailed fabric pattern and obi design by Cotoco
I had the fortunate opportunity to go check out a Kimono exhibition by kimono designer Akiko Mikami at Buson in Kyoto. Her new range of designs for her kimono brand Cotoco were on display. The combination of detailed patterns and striking rich colorful obi (belt) designs are done to perfection. Whilst still maintaining the traditional form and use of traditional design elements, the designs have a modern and original touch individual to the designer. An amazing achievement.
See more kimono designs at her website.

Dane Ash Designer

In Japan the advertising posters around the streets are pinned to the wall using these little stickers. On close inspection they have some cool designs. I have seen about 6 different styles ranging from a simple red dot to the more detailed versions you see here. Must be because there is no BluTac here. more design stuff

100% Design Tokyo festival logo on its entrance
Hint! Press Pass! Tokyo is big and so are its events. The 100% Design event was a showcase of the scene in Tokyo and Internationally. Displays in shipping crates is popular at the moment. Nike had a gallery of shoe history complete with security entrance to interlocking crates. A stand out was the visa cards and a canvas displays. I have never seen so much printed material. Get designers together showing off their stuff and the fliers will be a plenty.

interiors were a focus

Kyoto live painter Hachio’s work after seven days in action

The artist

A detail of the large piece

7 Days Live Painting. I visited the art space where Hachio was in the midst of creating this insane piece. The Kyoto local performs live painting in Kyoto clubs, galleries and spaces. Usually of a massive scale and created instinctively to music, the works are a stunning mix of influences and talent. I caught him during a break from painting sipping on a lager after a painting session. See the results of all the hard work at the exhibition. 2008.10.5(sun) – 2008.10.19(sun) at Antenna Alternative Art Space

The beginnings of my personal project entitled fanfair. All I can say now is that it is an online shop with a difference. I will post more as it develops.

Miranda has put together some great products in her new online shop. Her cute and stylish cutout designs suit most settings and are available now. Congratulations Miranda.

Designer Maruyama Eisuke is releasing his new range of jeans designed for the international market. Featuring some insanely nice Japanese quality fabric and inventive but stylish design, these jeans are sure to be common place amongst those in the know with fashion. visit the website