Back in London after a year in Japan, it has been interesting to look at the relationship between the two countries. Although the USA is intertwined into Japan’s post-war history and the countries still have a close, complicated relationship, I don’t think many would argue that political or formal relations between Britain and Japan are particularly prominent. However, at ground level it’s a different story. Maybe I’m just more aware of it but I feel like I’m seeing more Japanese people around London, overhearing more Japanese in shops and cafes and experiencing a generally bigger Japanese stamp here than I did a year ago. In the art world the links between the countries are unquestionable. Two of London’s biggest art events this year were headlined by the Japanese: Yayoi Kusama and SANAA Architects at the Southbank and Serpentine, respectively. In music, Japan’s Fuji Rock and Summer Sonic Festival’s are annually brimming with British acts. But the world of clothing and fashion is maybe where the link shows up strongest. At Albam, some of the earliest foreign contact we had was, despite the distance, with Japan. Our relationships there continue to be fruitful and it has been fascinating for us to learn about Japan and its people through that connection.
Yayoi Kusama, Hayward Gallery
SANAA Architects, Serpentine Summer Pavilion
James and the Maiden gang at Old Spitalfields Market
