VACMA: Megumi Uenoyama - Kimonos

Developing Kimono design

I was originally planning to make adult sized kimonos however, a problem arose soon after. I initially changed my plan to make a doll/a puppet sized kimono because my fabric samples were simply weren’t big enough to make adult sized kimono, but on reflection, I rather wanted to make kimonos that a person can practically wear. Unfortunately, people won’t be able to wear them if I make a doll sized kimonos... They are too small to wear! I have played with fabric samples for days and finally came up with ideas of adding recycled Japanese fabrics to make child sized kimonos for my 7 year old son.

How do you feel your creative practice has developed since your project started?

I have really enjoyed learning new creative skills with local studio workshops but it was challenging at each stage. Time flew away so quickly and I assume this is because I really enjoyed learning new skills and developing ideas into my work. I definitely feel more confident and excited using textiles into my practice.

Where relevant, please briefly describe any monitoring or feedback obtained during or after your project.

I have made these kimonos for my son. He gave me a good feedback with three words.

• Comfy
• Warm
• Unique

I have not shown or planned to show my project in public yet. I would like to keep developing ideas and my practice skills and continue to make more samples into the future.

Did the award make a difference to the success of your project?

Yes, I could not achieve my project without the award! I find learning new creative techniques are always challenging and I struggle many times but these experiments and experiences lead to wider opportunities and flexibilities for my creative practice.