A book exploring the work and personality of ISSEY MIYAKE designer Miyake Issey, "Where Did Issey Come From? - The Person and Work of Miyake Issey" (3,200 yen, published by HeHe), will be released.

The book is a compilation of eight essays by Koike Kazuko that were included in "Issey Miyake: Miyake Issey," a large-format book that could be considered a "culmination of Miyake's entire work," published in 2016 by German art publisher TASCHEN, with an additional newly written chapter 9.

Author Koike Kazuko, who continues to support Japan's creative world by planning and directing exhibitions and being involved in the founding of MUJI, is one of the people who has known Miyake since his student days. The author, who has closely observed and closely engaged with Miyake's remarkable achievements and diverse activities beyond craftsmanship, offers a unique perspective on Miyake's work and his life, expressing his unique insights in rich prose. The book is a compelling read, like a documentary, skillfully capturing the sensibilities of the times, centering on Miyake. The book was planned by Midori Kitamura, who has supported Miyake's creative work for over 40 years. The book's design was handled by art director Katsumi Asaba, and the frontispiece by graphic designer Tadanori Yokoo. Each chapter features approximately 30 carefully selected color illustrations from Yokoo's Paris Collection invitations, making it a unique piece that will be enjoyed by fans and beyond. The monochrome foil-stamped cover and the contrast between the imposing vertical Japanese text, printed using letterpress printing, and the elegant horizontal English text highlight Asaba's skill. The book will be available in early December at general bookstores nationwide and at select flagship stores, including Issey Miyake Aoyama and Pleats Please Issey Miyake Roppongi. Additionally, a talk event featuring author Koike Kazuko, designer Asaba Katsumi, and Miyake Design representative Kitamura Midori will be held at the Aoyama Book Center main store on December 13th. Reservations can be made on the Aoyama Book Center main store's official website (http://www.aoyamabc.jp/event/issey-miyake/).