Petit H will be held at Shosei-en Garden in Kyoto from October 4th to 11th. We had the opportunity to speak with Hermès' Petit H artistic director, Pascal Mussard, who visited Japan for the event in her beloved city of Kyoto. What is the inspiration behind the unique objects born from dialogue between artists, designers, and artisans?
Pascal is a sixth-generation Hermès family member who grew up surrounded by Hermès' craftsmanship and materials from an early age. Regarding Kyoto being the first place in the world where Petit H will be held outside an Hermès boutique, she said, "It took courage to hold Petit H in Kyoto, a city of handcrafts where traditional techniques are still alive and well. However, paying homage to that tradition and creating objects that combine handcraftsmanship and design at an even higher level will be a springboard for Hermès as well. That's why we had no hesitation in choosing Kyoto."
■ Creation is "Dreaming, while giving dreams"
As demand for saddlery declined after World War I, Hermès' challenge and choice was to look to new horizons. She continued, "Creating something new together at Petit H is inspiring for the craftspeople of each métier. Encountering new materials and techniques enriches our creations. The most important philosophy in our craftsmanship is that the objects we create while dreaming move the hearts of those who see them, inspire admiration, and inspire new dreams." During the interview, she glanced out at the Shosei-en garden and said, "Even the way a rope is knotted leads to new discoveries. To me, this space, filled with Japanese wisdom, is the ultimate luxury. Kyoto is a city full of temptations." She smiled, clearly someone who knows the joy of cherishing the beauty of the world. "Being here, I feel like I understand why Kyoto's dignitaries once visited this garden in search of peace. When I turn on the TV, the news is filled with stories of chaos in the world. I can't help but feel that the world today doesn't understand what history has to teach us. Perhaps we need time to spend in this silence, to dream that beauty will save the world," Pascal continued. "Petit H" may be the moment when two skills passed down through the ages intersect. It also feels like a new beginning, marking the beginning of time for the future. Facing the "Petit H" object, I was reminded that the present moment lies beyond training and discipline, and I was captivated by its beauty.
