Tapetelana

Tapetelana

Let's combine four things I love; Shimokitazawa, Mexican handicrafts, carpet weaving and geometry. The outcome of this is Tapetelana, the designs of Tokyo-based textile weaver Yumiko Murai. I randomly discovered her exhibition at a tiny gallery space in my suburb, had a good gush over her work in my woeful Japanese, and I suppose we connected in a way that only fabric-lovers do.

Some examples of her beautiful designs:

All these images are via Yumiko's website. I adore the subtle colour combinations and bold geometric shapes. And I can picture several of these on my floor. Can't you?


E.

Pinky Violence

Pinky Violence

"Pinky Violence" is the name given to a genré of films made in late 60's / early 70's Japan that depicted sexed-up, vengeful, sadistic and often nude bad girls. All the elements of a perfect film, right?

I discovered the films after hearing some of the music, which is about as ridiculous and amazing as the movies are themselves. Introducing Reiko Ike; actress, singer and entertainer, who was eventually arrested (twice) in the 70's for possession of drugs and illegal gambling. Living the dream, right? Needless to say she dropped out of the entertainment industry after that.

And one of my favourites, the theme from "Play Girl".

 

There are a huge array of titles you could choose from for a first encounter, but many dub Sex & Violence as being one of the greats. I personally love the Delinquent Girl Boss series and of course, Play Girl, but if you want a full list check out this excellent resource on The Deuce grindhouse cinema database.

And not to forget the amazing posters from the era too. Desperately trying to find one for my own collection.

Better leave it at that before my blog gets a content warning. Images are from here and here.


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Typograffit

Typograffit

Up for a bit of time-wasting? Do you like typography? Then read further if you wish to faff off the next couple of hours with Typograffit.

I walked past Theory in Aoyama the other day and I noticed, to my joy, a typographic cushion display.

And then again with this VM in Shibuya...

Typography! Miniature cushions! I did a little happy designer dance before getting online and checking out exactly what Typograffit was. Lo and behold, it's an app that you can stick on your iPhone, iPad or just use the old-fashioned way (in your browser).

You stick in any words and phrases you want, then Typograffit generates a brand new version in colourful, ransom note style text. Here's something I came up with.

Well I do! Okay? Try it and see what you come up with. I've been here for at least 45 minutes now trying to happen upon my own perfect combination of neon letters. Just a few more minutes....


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This Must Be The Place

This Must Be The Place

If you had plenty of time and felt like braving the listening wind (two Talking Heads puns in the first sentence. I'm on fire), you may have dropped by Vacant in Harajuku to see David Byrne's art exhibition.

So you probably know Byrne as the charismatic, peculiar-dance-moving, difficult to explain frontman of Talking Heads. I believe the first time I saw him on TV he looked like this:

This strange man in an oversized suit became an instant favourite, and whenever his awkward, intense gestures graced the screen I would do my best to imitate them with utmost accuracy. Of course I didn't really get the music as a kid, but at least it had a good beat and it was better than dancing to the theme from Degrassi. I got the music later in life, when I got most other things.

What you may not know about Byrne is that he's an avid supporter of the arts, and has dabbled in a range of media since the band's formation. Much of his artistic work has a political or social commentary, but it is sensitive and witty - as are many of his lyrics.

Everything is Connected billboard installation at Saks 5th Ave, 2002.

Click the image above for a detailed view.

The What Is It? series, 2002 - 2003. Installation view is from the Art Train at the Tokyo International Forum, 2002. My favourite by far.

Sleepless Nights: Hallways, 1979 - 1993.

Sleepless Nights: Purple Walls, 1979 - 1993.

The exhibition at Vacant included a small selection of Byrne's art, along with covetable rarities from the Talking Heads catalogue and Byrne's own collection.

Special mention goes to my favourite installation, the carpet of effects pedals.

People were hesitant to get on it, even though there was giant text on the floor saying "WALK ON ME". Here I am stomping away and generally making a hell of a racket. Thanks to Kumiko from Vacant who snapped this photo, and put up with my childish antics. But isn't that the point?

Unfortunately I was too busy at the time of the opening to meet the man himself, but the exhibition closed with a little performance by Buffalo Daughter and good cheer. Let's hope David Byrne never stops being creative and inspiring everyone.

Photos from the exhibition are by me. Other images are from Byrne's website.

Photographer Lynn Goldsmith once said of Byrne, "Some people find him distant, but I think that's because they are afraid to talk to him. They think he is Mr. Super Smart, and he is. He is smart enough not to judge people."

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