I think there are similarities at the root.
Keiichi Mizuno
Representative of the Harajuku art gallery "GALLERY
TARGET." Currently, the gallery handles works by contemporary artists from Japan and abroad, organizing exhibitions, off-site projects, and participating in art fairs. It has introduced artists with a strong cultural focus, such as Yusuke Hanai, Yu Nagaba, KYNE, and LY.
—What were your thoughts when you received the offer from "Beams T"?
Mizuno: Reaching a 50th anniversary is truly something special, isn’t it? And since “BEAMS T” is also celebrating its 25th anniversary, I was deeply honored to be approached by “GALLERY TARGET” during this significant milestone year, so I immediately agreed to do it.
—Ten artists are participating this time. Did you have any input regarding the lineup, Mizuno?
Mizuno: I left the selection entirely up to them. Most of the artists were people who had helped me out when I was younger at “Beams T,” so I’m glad this turned out to be a way for me to give something back.
—What are your impressions of "Beams T"?
Mizuno: When this store first opened, I thought it was groundbreaking. Rather than just being a retail shop, it focused on incorporating various cultural elements into T-shirts and sharing the joy of art. It’s truly wonderful that they’re still doing that today. The display rails in the window haven’t changed at all in 25 years, and the store layout is exactly the same. But the fact that it hasn’t lost its luster is truly amazing.
Mizuno: There are a lot of unique people here, aren’t there? The place is bursting with youthful energy, and the crowd is a bit different from the usual gallery visitors. I think that’s what makes it so interesting.
—The styles of the artists participating this time really complement the T-shirts, don't they?
Mizuno: That’s right. Even before they became as well-known as they are now, “Beams T” was the one that took us under their wing because they thought we were interesting, and I’m truly grateful for that. What we’re doing is really the same—the only difference is whether the medium is a T-shirt or a canvas. Artworks are sold within various constraints, but with T-shirts, the ripple effect is just incredible. You really can’t compete with that kind of dynamism.
—It’s almost as if the artwork is walking, so to speak.
Mizuno: Of course, there are differences in terms of whether they’re signed or the texture of the fabric, but with T-shirts, you can just print them and wear them casually. It’s really satisfying to see them end up in so many people’s hands, and it’s a real source of inspiration for us, too.
—I feel like society is becoming more and more open to art these days.
Mizuno: “GALLERY TARGET” will also be celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, and the number of galleries has increased dramatically since we first opened. Demand for art has risen significantly, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The artists we represent have been working steadily long before this trend emerged, and I feel that, at their core, they share a common thread. It’s hard to put into words, but I feel like the paths we’ve taken are quite similar. I think the same is true for “BEAMS T.”
—So you expressed those feelings through the title “COMMON GROUND,” didn’t you?
Mizuno: That’s true. When I look back after some time has passed, I realize that even though we never crossed paths, we actually have a lot in common. I think the only difference is in the results we produce; what we’re actually doing isn’t that different.
—What are the highlights of this project?
Mizuno: Each artist has interpreted "BEAMS" in their own work, and while you’d expect each piece to be unique, there’s a surprising sense of cohesion. I find that really interesting. It’s as if the essence of "BEAMS" and the essence of "GALLERY TARGET" coexist.
—Finally, please tell us what you expect from "Beams T" in the future.
Mizuno: I believe "Beams T" has the power to transform culture into fashion, so I hope it will continue to pick up on things that feel a bit off-the-beaten-path or possess a kind of uncategorized energy, and keep sharing them with the world. I try to do the same myself, but this event has really reaffirmed that feeling for me.
