Artist to Create Work at Kuroki During Denim Manufacturer’s 75th Year
LVMH Métiers d’Art, the crafts division of the French luxury group, is set to delve into the world of denim craftsmanship through its latest artist residency program. Tokyo-born artist and animator Shu Yonezawa has been selected as the program’s newest artist in residence and will spend the tenure at Kuroki, a denim manufacturer in Okayama, Japan. The residency coincides with Kuroki’s 75th anniversary.
Yonezawa is the ninth artist to participate in LVMH Métiers d’Art’s residency initiative and the first to do so in Japan. Launched in 2015, the program supports innovative approaches to traditional craftsmanship across LVMH’s divisions. Its collaboration with Kuroki reflects this focus, as the denim manufacturer oversees every step of production, from dyeing to weaving, and leverages Okayama’s natural soft water and vintage shuttle looms to produce high-quality textiles.
“This program highlights LVMH Métiers d’Art’s ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging artistic talent and modernizing traditional craftsmanship, while celebrating the dynamic landscape of Japanese artistry,” the company stated. Yonezawa has been granted full creative freedom during her residency, with her work to be unveiled later this year.
Kuroki, the first collaborator of LVMH Métiers d’Art’s Japan branch established in 2022, also emphasizes sustainable practices. “Although the initial cost may not be as attractive, high-quality jeans using the best finespun material last much longer than those made with inferior material,” said Tatsushi Kuroki, president of the company. “This, in the long run, results in better cost performance and supports environmental conservation.”
Yonezawa’s appointment marks a milestone in LVMH’s exploration of denim craftsmanship, reinforcing its dedication to sustainability and the evolving intersection of art and fashion.