these play a role in your design process?
Last week, Shimpei Mikami’s Label Star Takes Over Dover Street Market London with Graphic Tees
Japanese designer Shimpei Mikami’s label Star has made its highly anticipated debut at Dover Street Market London, showcasing a collection of bold and understated graphic tees. But these tees are more than just fashion statements – they represent Mikami’s personal journey and influences.
From Tokyo to the Subversive World of Punk and Avant-Garde Cinema
Star is deeply intertwined with Mikami’s coming of age outside of Tokyo, where he first encountered the rebellious attitudes of punk music and avant-garde Japanese cinema. This subversive backdrop has heavily influenced his aesthetic and the themes he explores in his designs.
A Visual Archive of Japanese Culture and Subcultures
A quick scroll through Star’s Instagram page reveals a vast archive of Japanese photography, movie stills, print spreads, and original artwork by Mikami himself. His handmade collages and graphic treatments reflect a mix of influences from rock music, cult films, vintage magazines, and Tokyo’s skate community.
Exploring Uncomfortable Topics Through Design
While Star celebrates the thriving areas of Japanese society, it also delves into more uncomfortable topics such as mental illness, violence, and social alienation. For Mikami, these areas of tension are where his distinct visual language shines. “Magic happens when something that you wouldn’t imagine gets mixed,” he explains.
From Vintage T-Shirts to a Full Creative Universe
When asked about the inspiration behind the name “Star,” Mikami reveals his love for vintage t-shirts and the iconic star logo from Menace Skateboards. But it was a book cover for “Star” by Yukio Mishima that truly sparked the idea. Mikami also shares his passion for traditional graphic design and his desire to expand beyond fashion into publications and typography.
Personal Sketchbooks and Handmade Collages: A Peek into Mikami’s Design Process
Mikami often shares his personal sketchbook pages and handmade collages on Instagram, giving followers a glimpse into his design process. These elements play a crucial role in his creative process and serve as a constant source of inspiration.
From Japanese Design Legends to Dover Street Market
Star’s debut at Dover Street Market London places Mikami’s label among other Japanese design legends. In an interview with Hypebeast, Mikami discusses the subcultural influences behind his aesthetic and what it means to be stocked at such a prestigious retailer.
Interview with Shimpei Mikami: The Man Behind Star
In an exclusive interview with Hypebeast, Shimpei Mikami shares his journey as a designer, his inspirations, and his plans for the future. From vintage t-shirts to a full creative universe, Mikami’s vision continues to evolve and inspire.
