Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) is proud to announce its forthcoming exhibition from the 7th to the 17th of February, 2024, which will explore the elaborate world of Japanese Kimono and textile art in partnership with the French Fashion Institute ESMOD Dubai and private collector Corentin de Sade.
The Japanese Kimono Exhibition – Between Tradition and Modernity will unveil a curated selection of 41 kimonos. Amongst the works, 30 are loaned from the esteemed collection of Corentin de Sade. Renowned for his dedication to textile studies, particularly in Japanese kimonos, De Sade’s work delves deep into various facets of Asian art and expertise.
This exhibition aims to illuminate the depth and beauty of Japanese culture through its distinctive textile arts. Indeed according to Corentin de Sade “Textile creation is an ancient art form in Japan with the kimono emerging as its quintessential symbol. It serves as a remarkable source of inspiration that extends far beyond the realms of luxury and fashion. From local craftsmanship to the heights of haute couture, and from the era of Utamaro to the legacies of Van Gogh and Monet, the kimono stands as an essential icon.”
Exploring three primary themes, the exhibition will offer insights into the history and diverse types of kimonos, present the intricate components such as materials, motifs, and techniques, and exhibit exceptional kimonos from Kyoto and Osaka. Moreover, the exhibition will integrate contemporary perspectives through modern textile analysis and 3D imaging technologies, offering a unique glimpse into the complexities of this ancient art form.
As a university deeply committed to multiculturalism, it is imperative to share the cultures of the world and to impart knowledge about these cultures. It is not merely a cultural exhibition; it embodies rigorous scientific work. Dr Christophe Moulherat, Associate Professor and Acting as the Head of Archaeology & History of Art Department at SUAD, Specialist of Ancient Textile Art, and Co-curator and Organiser of the exhibition, insists on the fact that “This dynamic between innovation and cultural preservation in the textile field reveals a rich weave of know-how, creativity and heritage preservation, illustrating how the threads of the past continue to weave the future of fashion and craftsmanship.”
In addition to their historical and artistic dimensions, the exhibition will showcase 18 kimonos designed in collaboration with students from the French Fashion Institute ESMOD Dubai. These modern interpretations of traditional Japanese garments highlight the fusion of cultures and the impact of Japanese textile art on the fashion industry.
Tamara Hostal, Director of ESMOD Dubai, commented, “I am constantly amazed by the diversity of designs found in kimonos, each reflecting a unique aspect of Japan’s rich history, fashion trends, or traditional codes. Our students at ESMOD Dubai French Fashion Institute have perfectly captured this essence, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity in their designs. The upcoming Kimono Exhibition stands as a testament to Japan’s consistent ability to astound us with its elegant textiles, styles, and profound cultural heritage.”
The Japanese Kimono Exhibition – Between Tradition and Modernity – will be open to the public from February 7, 2024, with the opening ceremony at 6 pm, until February 17, 2024, at the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi campus. Talking about the curation of the exhibition, Dr Moulherat, “explains that this exhibition offers a captivating exploration of the intersection between modernity and the cultural heritage of textile traditions. L’art du kimono, will be the first of a long series that will examine ancestral techniques, woven into the fabric of time, to discover how these traditions adapt and dialogue with contemporary demands.”
This provides a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts, students, and the general public to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Japanese textile art.
For more information about the event and to register visit: https://shorturl.at/ABIOZ