Taku Yoshimizu of the creative group Swimmy Design Lab has begun accepting orders for the "Re-Style x Swimmy Design Lab Memorial Art Album," a one-of-a-kind album created from photo data from weddings and children's growth records.
The service is available at Re-Style on the 3rd floor of the main building of Isetan Shinjuku. This limited-time service runs from September 24th to October 7th, with items delivered approximately one month later.
The album has a total of 60 pages and a base price of 60,000 yen. It includes 20 main shots selected by the purchaser, 80 other photos, and original illustrations by Yoshimizu. The original illustration is typically one page, but customers can add more as an option. The album also includes a default art page (two double-page spread) that combines photos, paper cutouts, and illustrations.
The cover is available in over 100 colors. Options like synthetic leather (additional ¥5,000) and wallpaper (additional ¥3,000) are available, allowing for a meticulous creation. The interior pages are intentionally made with matte paper for an art book-like finish. Not only are albums designed to suit each customer's preferences, but pages featuring a favorite photo are transformed into works of art, combining laser-cut paper with original illustrations by Yoshimizu himself. Regarding this service, a Restyle representative at Isetan Shinjuku commented, "We want customers to experience the joy of using their own sensibilities to create something original." They hope to offer the joy of seeing a masterful piece crafted by a first-class creator. Furthermore, as Yoshimizu explains, "The product name is 'Memorial Art Album,' but the contents are an art book," the ability to transform precious memories into art is a major plus.
In the second week of September, Isetan Mitsukoshi will be promoting products with "unique new value" as part of its "Only MI Autumn Campaign." The year-round service-based "Isetan Department Store," which includes this album ordering initiative, will also be holding a variety of events and seminars, with the aim of providing opportunities for customers to discover and experience their favorite items.
