LVMH MÉTIERS D’ART SELECTS SHU YONEZAWA FOR ITS 9TH RÉSIDENCE ARTISTIQUE
LVMH Métiers d’Art is delighted to announce Shu Yonezawa, a rising young Japanese artist, as the selected artist for its 9th Résidence Artistique project.This marks the first time the program will be held in Japan, signifying a deepening commitment to the country’s rich artistic heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. The project further solidifies the importance of Japan for LVMH Métiers d’Art, following the opening of its first Japanese office in 2022, dedicated to spotlighting the nation’s remarkable artisans and their savoir-faire.The six-month residency, set to begin on January 13th, will be based at the renowned denim manufacturer KUROKI in Okayama, coinciding with KUROKI’s 75th anniversary. KUROKI, the first métier to partner with LVMH Métiers d’Art in Japan, was founded in 1950 and is celebrated for its meticulous, vertically integrated production process, controlling nearly every step from dyeing and weaving to finishing. Their use of vintage shuttle looms and the natural soft water of the Iba region, contribute to the unique texture and renowned quality of their denim.The artist will be granted complete artistic freedom to explore and push the boundaries of denim craftsmanship, drawing on KUROKI's unparalleled expertise in the field. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity to showcase the intersection of traditional Japanese techniques and contemporary artistic vision. The resulting artwork will be unveiled at a later date in 2025 at a location yet to be announced.Shu Yonezawa succeeds Josèfa Ntjam, the artist chosen for the 2023/2024 LVMH Métiers d’Art Résidence Artistique, which focused on metal sculptures realized by Jade Groupe in France and Portugal. This new residency underscores LVMH Métiers d’Art’s ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging artistic talent and championing innovative approaches to traditional craftsmanship, specifically highlighting the vibrant and evolving landscape of Japanese artistry.LVMH Métiers d'Art extends its sincere gratitude to the esteemed art advisors, Mami Kataoka, Takashi Murakami, Kouhei Nawa, and Jean-Paul Claverie, for their invaluable contributions to the artist selection process.