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In the dynamic landscape of fashion and artistic expression, Tomihiro Kono stands out as a beacon of innovation and mastery. Renowned as a premier wig maker and head prop artist from Japan, his career is a vivid illustration of how hair design can radically transform visual storytelling.
Drawing from an eclectic mix of inspirations including the intricate beauty of the natural world, the evocative power of music, the rich depths of art history, and the allure of pop culture icons, Tomihiro crafts each piece as a standalone story, woven with threads of creativity and originality. His collaboration with the legendary Björk is a highlight, emphasizing the exceptional quality of his work and the broad acclaim it has received across the globe.
We are beyond honored to have talked with Tomihiro Kono in this exclusive interview, where he shares insights into his artistic journey, the profound inspirations behind his remarkable creations, and a glimpse into his future endeavors.
This interview invites you to delve into the mind of a visionary.
MEET TOMIHIRO KONO
Q. FOR THOSE THAT ARE UNFAMILIAR WITH YOU AND YOUR WORK PLEASE TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR BACKGROUND.
A. I’m a wig maker and head prop artist from Japan. I grew up surrounded by the nature.
I’ve lived in London, NY, and currently based in Tokyo.
Q. WHAT INSPIRED YOUR JOURNEY OF CREATING WIGS? HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY BEGIN?
A. Having started my career as a hairdresser, I started working as a session hair stylist in the fashion industry. After some years passed, I wanted to start making wigs from scratch. For me, wig-making is the total art of hair design using all the techniques.
Q. WHAT IS YOUR SOURCE OF INSPIRATION WHEN CREATING? DOES IT VARY WITH EACH PIECE?
A. Mostly Natural Creatures but I sometimes take inspiration from musicians, art, history, and pop icons. Variety of inspirations.
Q. OUT OF ALL OF THE PEOPLE THAT YOU HAVE WORKED WITH DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE?
A. Björk
Q. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO TAKE AWAY FROM
YOUR WORK?
A. Transformation is Beautiful at all times.
Q. ASIDE FROM MAKING EYE-CATCHING CREATIONS WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?
A. Paludarium - I’m passionate about growing exotic plants from South America.
A paludarium is a type of vivarium that incorporates both terrestrial and aquatic elements.
Q. DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING PLANS FOR THE FUTURE/CURRENT WORKS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS?
A. Pop-up book launch at EAST-EAST Art Fair (@easteast_) in Tokyo, Japan.
Dates: February 17,18,19th.
Wig exhibition starting at the end of February for 2 months in @currentplans Hong Kong.
I’m publishing a new book ‘Fancy Creatures’ this February featuring my new work of wigs made between 2020-2022.
Will be available to purchase on www.konomad.com
SOCIALS:
@konomadinc
@tomikono_wig
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