Paul Smith everywhere! An exhibition exploring the origins of Paul Smith's creativity opens in Kyoto [Report--1/2]

Jun 5, 2016
What comes to mind when you think of Paul Smith? Colorful colors and witty motifs... Reflecting London culture, his work is traditional yet innovative.

An exhibition revealing what makes the renowned British-born fashion designer Paul Smith who he is, opened at the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto on the 4th.

■ What inspires Paul's creations?

The exhibition begins at the entrance in early summer in Kyoto, where the words "HELLO KYOTO" are painted in bright pink, standing out against the green trees. Pink, the main color in the visuals this time, comes from Paul's own wish to inspire Japanese people with a bright and positive attitude.

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The audio guide for the exhibition is provided by actor Shota Matsuda, a Paul Smith fan.


In the first booth, numerous paintings and photographs from Paul's collection are displayed across the walls. The collection includes works by famous artists like Andy Warhol, as well as pieces sent by friends, family, and occasionally even Paul's fans. The exhibition seems to convey the message that lies at the heart of Paul Smith's creations: "finding value in even the most ordinary things." ■ The "Beginnings" of Paul Smith's Career
Next, there's a booth that looks back on how Paul Smith's career began, as Paul himself said, "I honestly laid bare everything about myself in this exhibition." The three-meter-square white cube, so large that if you stretched your hand out, you could almost touch the opposite wall. This is the exact size of the first Paul Smith building, opened in Nottingham in 1970. By entering this cube, visitors can physically experience the place where Paul Smith's story unfolded.
Behind the cube is a reproduction of Paul Smith's first press room. This press room is a Paris hotel room. A black cloth draped over the bed, six shirts and two knitwear pieces are laid out, and two suits are hanging in the closet. Yes, Paul Smith, now sold in 70 countries around the world, began with a collection of just 10 pieces.

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Paul Smith's first showroom was a hotel room in Paris. It was equipped with 10 outfits.


■ The people behind Paul's creations

There are several people who are essential to discussing Paul's roots. One is his father, an amateur photographer who taught Paul the joys of photography when he was 11 years old. The venue displays advertising campaign images by famous photographers such as David Bailey and Mario Mastino, along with the camera that Paul inherited from his father.

And then there's his wife, Pauline, who taught Paul how to make clothes. Paul himself said, "Without her, I couldn't have achieved anything." The exhibition showcases the important elements of fashion that she imparted to him, along with past visuals and sketches.

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There is also an exhibition that tells stories about Paul and his wife, Pauline.


Next, let's move on to a zone that visually leads us to the source of Paul's creativity.
Shigematsu Yuka
  • Approximately 500 pieces from Paul's collection, stored within the walls and basement of his London office, will be on display.
  • Paul Smith visits Japan
  • A complete replica of Paul's office in Covent Garden, London
  • A complete replica of Paul's office in Covent Garden, London
  • The first showroom was a hotel room in Paris.
  • The first showroom was a hotel room in Paris.
  • Inside a cube the size of the first Paul Smith store
  • Paul Smith at the first Paul Smith store
  • Inside a cube the size of the first Paul Smith store
  • There is also a segment where Paul shares his feelings for his wife, Pauline.
  • Paul Smith promotional visuals on display
  • The camera that Paul inherited from his father is also on display.
  • The world premiere of the Paul Smith x Mini collaboration car
  • Approximately 500 pieces from Paul's collection, stored within the walls and basement of his London office, will be on display.
  • The entrance to the exhibition reads "HELLO Kyoto"
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