“Bamboo 1947: Then and Now” Sees Contemporary Artists Reimagine Vintage Iterations of the Iconic Bag
As Gucci marks the 60th anniversary of its debut in Japan, the house is celebrating its longstanding connection with the country and its culture through a series of special events and activations. The latest of these is “Bamboo 1947: Then and Now,” a collaborative exhibition that will be hosted at the Gucci Ginza Gallery in Tokyo from August 2 to September 23.
This exhibition will showcase 60 vintage Bamboo 1947 bags, mostly from the 1980s and 1990s, which have been creatively revitalized by esteemed Japanese artisans and contemporary artists. Each bag has been reimagined with a focus on themes of discovery and upcycling, reflecting Gucci’s dedication to blending tradition with innovation.
Originally introduced in 1947, the Bamboo 1947 bag quickly became a symbol of Gucci’s pioneering craftsmanship. Over the decades, it has been reinterpreted by each of Gucci’s creative directors, maintaining its status as a timeless fashion icon that bridges the past and present.
Notable contributors to the exhibition include goldsmith and Living National Treasure Morihito Katsura and his student Naoko Ai, ceramist Nakazato Hirotsune, lacquerer Ai Tokeshi, photographer Daido Moriyama, and painters Nami Yokoyama and Yui Yaegashi. These artisans will bring their unique perspectives to the Bamboo 1947 bags, enhancing their craftsmanship and timeless elegance.
Following the exhibition, these reimagined bags will be available for purchase as art pieces. This initiative continues Gucci’s narrative of merging tradition with modernity, showcasing the intersection of fashion, art, and culture.
