The special exhibition “Clay and Cloth: Shoji Kamoda and IM MEN” is being held at The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, from March 28 to June 21.

The exhibition explores the conceptual foundation behind IM MEN’s Spring Summer 2026 collection “DANCING TEXTURE,” placing it in dialogue with the work of Japanese ceramic artist Shoji Kamoda.

Courtesy of ISSEY MIYAKE

The inspiration for the Spring Summer 2026 collection originates from the works of Shoji Kamoda (1933–1983), a ceramic artist who pursued his own vision of form beyond the conventions of traditional craftsmanship.

Upon encountering Kamoda’s work, the IM MEN design team intuitively felt a desire to “wear this pottery as garments.” Through close examination of his works and visits to the places where they were created, the team discovered forms liberated from conventional structures, richly layered textures, and meticulously crafted details. These elements were translated into fabric, resulting in the garments presented in the collection.

Courtesy of ISSEY MIYAKE

The exhibition presents key garments made from original textiles representing “DANCING TEXTURE,” alongside Kamoda’s ceramic works from the museum’s collection.

In addition, visitors can view a film documenting places and people connected to Kamoda, as well as the creative process behind the IM MEN collection. Moving across material, time, and physicality, the exhibition offers a layered perspective on the nature of creation.

Courtesy of ISSEY MIYAKE

Kamoda’s practice, though spanning only about two decades, expanded the expressive possibilities of ceramics and continues to exert a lasting influence.

That energy is translated into clothing, generating a new sensory experience. The dialogue between clay and cloth goes beyond reference, making visible the very process of creation itself.

Through this exhibition, a quiet yet resonant question emerges—one that considers the relationship between makers and viewers, and the possibilities that arise from that connection.

Courtesy of ISSEY MIYAKE

■About IM MEN
IM MEN is a menswear brand rooted in the philosophy of Issey Miyake, exploring the relationship between the body and cloth. Through experimental approaches to material development and structural design, it proposes new possibilities for garments that respond to contemporary physicality.

■About Shoji Kamoda
Shoji Kamoda (1933–1983) was a pioneering Japanese ceramic artist born in Osaka and trained in Kyoto, later developing his practice in regions such as Mashiko and Tōno. Through innovative techniques, he expanded the boundaries of traditional ceramics, creating a body of work that continues to influence generations of makers.