When one thinks of jewelry, images of timeless elegance, precious metals, and meticulous craftsmanship come to mind. However, KOTA OKUDA transcends these traditional notions, pushing the boundaries of jewelry design into new and captivating directions that appeal to a discerning audience. From his early days at Central Saint Martins to his MFA at Parsons, Okuda’s work evolved from intricate jewelry to life-size body costumes, uniquely positioning him at the intersection of jewelry and fashion. His sensational debut at New York Fashion Week 2018, followed by subsequent shows, attracted high-profile clients like Rihanna and Kanye West, and garnered attention from top publications such as VOGUE and ELLE.
With a rich background in New York, London, and Tokyo, Okuda’s designs explore the boundaries between fine art, fashion, and applied craft. His creations balance significance, value, and performance, utilizing techniques like 3D modeling and printing. Originally from Niigata, Japan, Okuda’s impressive education includes degrees from Central Saint Martins and Parsons, along with accolades such as the International Talent Support grand-prix and the Swarovski Foundation scholarship, and Tomodachi Uniqlo Fellowship.
Okuda’s mission extends beyond traditional jewelry, aiming to redefine its relationship with fashion and societal context. His designs blend classical and contemporary elements with a sense of humor, expanding the possibilities of jewelry design while reshaping its role in the social sphere.
Can you share how you blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology in your jewelry and fashion designs?
Blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology in jewelry and fashion designs, inspired by Kota Okuda’s innovative approach, involves a harmonious integration of time-honored techniques with modern advancements.
Kota Okuda blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology by utilizing 3D printing and CAD to create intricate designs while incorporating hand-finished details and traditional techniques. He experiments with diverse materials, from precious metals to plastics, ensuring a unique and sustainable approach. Okuda’s designs often carry deep philosophical and social messages, challenging traditional notions of jewelry and fashion. Collaboration with artisans and technologists allows him to innovate while respecting traditional skills, creating pieces that are both timeless and forward-thinking.
Your work is heavily influenced by Karl Marx’s theories. How do you translate these philosophical concepts into your designs?
「Commodity Fetishism」
In Marxist philosophy, the term commodity fetishism describes the economic relationships of production and exchange as being social relationships that exist among things (money and merchandise) and not as relationships that exist among people.
Kota Okuda translates Karl Marx’s theories, particularly Commodity Fetishism, into his designs by incorporating elements of currency to highlight the fetishization of money. His work critiques consumerism by transforming everyday objects associated with wealth into high-fashion pieces, questioning societal values. Okuda deconstructs traditional notions of luxury using unconventional materials, emphasizing the arbitrary nature of value. Additionally, his designs often include conceptual and performance art elements, inviting viewers to engage with the philosophical critique of commodity idolization.
Capitalism and value are central themes in your collections. What drives you to explore these particular subjects?
Kota Okuda explores themes of capitalism and value due to his personal and cultural background, which makes him aware of capitalism’s impact on identity and society. His intellectual curiosity about philosophical concepts, particularly those of Karl Marx, drives his examination of economic systems. Okuda critiques consumerism, questioning the obsession with material goods and their perceived value. His artistic expression aims to provoke thought and inspire change, encouraging a more conscious approach to consumption.
Your designs sit at the crossroads of art and fashion. How do you navigate and define the relationship between these two realms?
Kota Okuda navigates the intersection of art and fashion by infusing his designs with conceptual depth, often addressing philosophical and social themes. He uses avant- garde aesthetics and experiments with unconventional materials, blurring the line between wearable items and art objects. Okuda’s collections often tell a narrative, akin to storytelling in art, and he frequently collaborates with artists and technologists to enrich his work. His designs are also showcased in art galleries and exhibitions, highlighting their artistic value.
How do Japanese consumers’ interest in design backgrounds and artistic elements impact your approach to the Japanese market?
Kota Okuda tailors his approach to the Japanese market by emphasizing storytelling and incorporating deep narratives into his designs, appealing to local preferences for meaningful and thoughtful aesthetics. He prioritizes meticulous craftsmanship and blends traditional Japanese motifs with contemporary design to resonate with cultural sensibilities. Collaborations with prominent Japanese fashion designers and strategic exhibitions in art-centric venues further enhance the artistic appeal of his collections to Japanese consumers interested in design backgrounds and artistic elements.
Your work utilizes a variety of materials, from metals to plastics. How do you decide on and integrate these diverse materials into your designs?
Kota Okuda selects and integrates diverse materials into his designs based on their conceptual alignment with the themes and narratives he wishes to convey. He considers the aesthetic effects each material can achieve, such as the visual contrasts or harmonies between metals and plastics. Technical feasibility plays a crucial role, ensuring materials are suitable for intricate designs while also prioritizing sustainability and ethical considerations through responsible sourcing and recycling practices. Okuda’s experimental approach allows him to push the boundaries of traditional material uses, resulting in designs that are both innovative and conceptually rich.
Balancing avant-garde design with practicality can be challenging. How do you strike this balance in your collections?
Kota Okuda achieves a balance between avant-garde design and practicality by anchoring his collections in strong conceptual frameworks that justify bold artistic choices. He ensures functionality through careful adaptation of avant-garde designs, considering wearability and comfort without compromising on aesthetic innovation. Material selection plays a crucial role, with Okuda opting for durable and high-quality materials that support both visual impact and everyday use. Understanding market trends and collaborating with experts further refines his designs, ensuring they resonate with contemporary fashion while maintaining their artistic integrity.
Your brand has received numerous international accolades. Which achievements stand out to you, and why are they significant?
Kota Okuda’s standout achievements include winning the Tomodachi – Uniqlo Fellowship, which supported his creative development at Parsons, and the Grand Prix at the ITS 2015 Jewelry Award, bringing him early international recognition. His debut collection at New York Fashion Week in 2018 garnered significant attention, leading to collaborations with celebrities and high-profile fashion brands. Exhibiting his work in various prestigious platforms further validated his innovative approach, emphasizing his significant impact on both jewelry and fashion design.
How do your cultural background and personal experiences manifest in your work?
Kota Okuda’s cultural background and personal experiences are evident in his work through profound philosophical themes and narratives that explore identity and societal values. He blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern technology, reflecting both heritage and innovation in his material choices. Symbolism drawn from Japanese culture infuses his designs with narrative depth and emotional resonance, showcasing a harmonious balance of minimalist aesthetics and avant-garde experimentation. Okuda’s global perspective further enriches his work, incorporating diverse influences while maintaining a distinct cultural identity rooted in his Japanese heritage.
In your opinion, what is the social significance of design, and how do you aim to convey this through your creations?
The social significance of design lies in its ability to influence and reflect cultural values, challenge norms, and provoke critical thought. Through my creations, I aim to convey this by integrating meaningful narratives and philosophical concepts that resonate with contemporary issues. By blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques, I seek to showcase the value of heritage alongside modernity, promoting sustainability and ethical practices. Ultimately, I believe design should inspire dialogue, evoke emotions, and contribute positively to societal discourse by addressing pressing social and environmental concerns.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and plans for the future of the Kota Okuda brand?
Looking ahead, my aspirations for the Kota Okuda brand include expanding our artistic and philosophical exploration within jewelry and fashion. Inspired by designers like Thomas Bliven and Robert Goossens, who seamlessly blend jewelry design with fashion context, I aim to push boundaries by integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. Sustainability will remain crucial, with a focus on ethical sourcing and innovative materials. Collaborations with artists and brands across disciplines will be key to broadening creative horizons and reaching new global audiences. Ultimately, I envision Kota Okuda as a leader in innovative, socially conscious design, shaping a more conscientious and culturally enriched fashion landscape.
