MONOLOGUE

by Kanako Kajihara

Toward Beyond Zero

Culture and craftsmanship that has developed from Japan’s rich environment such as the artistic philosophy of wabi-sabi is unique in that it has allowed for innovation as well as felxibility in order to encompass multicultural perspectives. The fusion of different elements and the dedication to refining intricate skills have given rise to Japan’s unique sensibility and the development of industries.

In the future, stability and challenges will always go hand in hand. With challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, rural depopulation, and labor shortages, Japan needs forward-thinking creativity that not only preserves tradition but also resonates with the times to sustain its manufacturing environment.

By combining the wisdom from long held tradition and modern sensibilities of today, we can create new aesthetics that transcend generations and borders, and can contribute to the continuation of local Japanese factories deeply rooted in various regions and nurture their talents for the future.

Visitors to the “SUPER ZERO Lab” will have the opportunity to experience the behind the scenes manufacturing process and learn from it. We encourage you to move beyond a single answer, but rather to explore the process of creation to discover the hidden potential for the future

Here we gather together, as a place that promotes free thinking that moves beyond concepts in order to pave the way forward and build the bridges to the future.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability for the Future

We choose to be environmentally conscious through our use of materials throughout the store. Our interior is made with materials constructed from circular manufacturing and recycled waste. We also monitor the stores collection and reuse of waste to reduce our environmental impact. We value transparency and will continue to share background information athe manufacturing processes of our yarn, materials, and products.
Moving forward, we will actively collaborate with products and brands that practice circular design ain order to achieve our goal of combining Japanese aesthetics with sustainability.
We look forward to engaging with those who also resonate with our vision for the future and are eager to take on the challenges needed to make it a reality. We invite you to participate along with us through our store, lab, and events, here at “SUPER ZERO Lab”.

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Kanako Kajihara

Born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Kanako Kajihara graduated from the Department of Dyeing and Weaving Faculty of Design, at Tama Art University. After working at ISSEY MIYAKE INC., she went to the UK to complete her Master’s course at the Royal College of Art Fashion & Textile Course. In 2006, she founded KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO and launched the textile brand KANA COLLECTION, which focuses on materials produced in Japan, and presents them to overseas haute couture houses. She also works with companies with branding as well as regional revitalization as a creative director. She received the 42nd Sento-ken Award in 2020. Appointed as director of the digital sales support project CRAHUG for factory brands. Instructor for WWD Sustainability Director Training, and a member of the study group on the future of fashion organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Appointed to the Advisory Board of the Kering Generation Award. She launched “COQ,” a complex facility consisting of shops, dining areas, and guesthouses focusing on an ethical lifestyle, in the forests of her hometown, Sapporo, promoting a color-healing and circular lifestyle in harmony with nature.

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