Courageous Reversion

The idea that “the present is the most advanced era in history” has pervaded the world since the Industrial Revolution, which began in the mid-18th century. Today, this “common sense” is on the verge of losing its validity. Humanity’s pursuit of progress has burdened the environment; our obsession with profit has taken the pleasure out of our jobs; our urge to mechanically divide labor has deprived craftsmen of the joy of creating beautiful objects with their hands. In our search for the ultimate beauty, we muster up our courage and revert to the beauty found in the traditional culture from the past in order to relay its potential to the future.

Reviving Ancient Plant Dyeing

At HOSOO, we have established HOSOO STUDIES, a research and development department focused on dyeing and weaving, with an aim to link the past with the present and explore the possibilities for the future.

As part of the department’s initiatives, we have been conducting research into ancient plant dyeing. When you hear the words “natural dyes,” you may think of dull colors. Some may think of it as an old technique replaced by chemical dyes once they were developed in a more recent period.

Reviving Silkworms

At the Laboratory of Ancient Dyeing, we hope to revive some of the Edo-period silkworms selected among the 1,000-plus species preserved by NARO for their beautiful yarn. As the first step, we are attempting to revive several species of silkworms, including Cevennes white.

Reviving Hemp Fiber

In our pursuit of softness in textile materials, we have focused on and researched hemp fiber in addition to silk. We are working with Mr. Shinichiro Yoshida, a researcher of old fabric and an artist.

Research and Preservation of Japanese Dyeing and Weaving Culture

As a curator of Japanese dyeing and weaving culture, we uncover the history of each production area and record, communicate, and preserve its culture.

STATEMENT

Non-Hierarchical Collaboration

Creating Kogei Society