Set to grace Melbourne with its presence on June 4, 2025, Kimono is an eagerly anticipated exhibition at NGV International that promises to captivate art and fashion lovers alike.
Curated by the National Gallery of Victoria, the exhibition not only explores the history and beauty of the iconic Japanese garment but also celebrates its enduring influence on global art, design, and fashion. With over 70 breathtaking kimono, more than 150 related artworks, and captivating contemporary designs, the exhibition is a visual feast that bridges centuries of Japanese sophistication and innovation.
The Art of Kimono
The exhibition opens a window into the intricate craftsmanship that defines the kimono. Each garment, handcrafted with meticulous care, tells a story through its exquisite materials, techniques, and motifs. Visitors can marvel at creations made from the world’s finest silk, adorned with gold and silver thread, and intricately hand-painted scenes of flowers and auspicious symbols. Highlights include Edo-period silk and ramie kimono, adorned with motifs like wisteria tendrils, maple leaves, and shibori-dyed cranes on a traditional wedding kimono. These awe-inspiring works evoke the elegance and refinement of 18th- and 19th-century Japanese samurai and merchant classes.
A standout in the collection is a significant Australian connection: a white wedding kimono gifted by Melbourne’s Saito family, made by Funiko Saito, the former official embroiderer to the Japanese imperial family. Such pieces not only showcase artistry but also weave together personal and cultural narratives.
Tradition Meets Modernity
Kimono is more than a historical exploration; the exhibition charts the garment’s evolution and its relevance in contemporary life. Featuring work from acclaimed modern designers like Hiroko Takahashi, Robe Japonica, and Jotaro Saito, it reveals how traditional techniques adapt to the present. For Saito, one of the most celebrated contemporary kimono designers, this harmony is central. His collection, Dark Romantic, is a testament to his mastery of yuzen painting and stenciling, blending centuries-old methods with bold modern aesthetics.
Moving beyond Japan’s borders, Kimono demonstrates the garment’s profound impact on Western fashion. Designs by Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, and John Galliano reimagine the kimono’s silhouette and motifs with a modern sensibility. Iconic works by Issey Miyake, known for his pleated haori coats inspired by graphic designer Ikko Tanaka, and Yohji Yamamoto’s innovative takes on hybrid tailoring redefine the dialogue between cultures.
Japonisme and Global Resonance
The kimono’s global appeal extends back to the late 19th century, with the Japonisme movement influencing Western art and design. The exhibition presents exquisite examples of this period, including coats from Liberty & Co and Parisian couturiers like Callot Soeurs and Paul Poiret, whose luxurious designs were inspired by kimono silhouettes.
The kimono’s resurgence during the 1980s and beyond is also celebrated, with displays of garments by international names such as Givenchy, Zambesi, and Akira Isogawa. The Sydney-based Isogawa draws directly from kimono traditions while introducing fresh reinterpretations for modern wearers, highlighting the garment’s relevance in today’s fashion landscape.
Culture and Theater
No exploration of kimono would be complete without acknowledging its role in Japan’s traditional arts. Audiences will be mesmerized by kimono costumes from Noh and Kyogen theater, crafted with dazzling brocade and accented by gold and silver thread. Accompanying masks, fabric swatches, and lacquerware bring the theatrical traditions to life, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage.
A Living Tradition
Kimono also celebrates the garment’s playful and experimental side, featuring cutting-edge street fashion from Japan’s Harajuku district, modern dandyism, and kawaii aesthetics by brands like Rumi Rock and Modern Antenna. These styles demonstrate the garment’s ability to remain both deeply traditional and boldly contemporary, appealing to audiences around the world.
See Kimono at NGV International
From its historical origins to its modern revival, Kimono underscores the timeless elegance and adaptability of this iconic garment. Whether you’re an aficionado of art, fashion, or Japanese culture, this exhibition offers something extraordinary to behold.
Running from June 4 to October 5, 2025, at NGV International on St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Kimono promises to be a must-see event in Australia’s cultural calendar. Buy tickets and learn more at ngv.melbourne. Don’t miss your chance to experience the sophistication and artistry of these timeless masterpieces.