In October 2023, PUMA will release its first collaborative collection "PUMA x SORAYAMA" with artist Motoi Sorayama. To celebrate the release, a special event was held at the "PUMA STORE HARAJUKU CAT STREET" in Harajuku, Tokyo, on October 29 (Sun.), where Mr. Sorayama himself visited the store. Here we present a report on the event and an interview with Mr. Sorayama.
A fascinating collaboration that expresses Motoi Sorayama's worldview.
On the day of the event, a long line formed in front of the "PUMA STORE HARAJUKU CAT STREET. Some eager fans brought their own art books and posters of Mr. Sorayama. You could sense the high level of anticipation.
CLYDE SORAYAMA ¥27,500
A total of three models of shoes were developed. CLYDE SORAYAMA, the flagship of this collaborative collection, is based on the Clyde, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. . The distinctive feature is the side part of the upper that changes from silver to gold in response to ultraviolet rays.
CLYDE MIJ SORAYAMA ¥40,700
This is the "CLYDE MIJ SORAYAMA" based on the MADE IN JAPAN "PUMA Clyde". . The upper is made of high-quality suede. . The monogrammed SORAYAMA logo stamped on the foam strip is also not to be missed.
SLIPSTREAM MID SORAYAMA ¥33,000
Based on the mid-cut model of the "SLIPSTREAM," the "SLIPSTREAM MID SORAYAMA" is a perfect representation of Mr. Sorayama's world view, with silver metallic processing applied throughout the upper. . The Sorayama logo on both sides of the shoe is an accent.
There are other highlights as well. The shoe box also has a special design, with "Robot Puma Cat" painted on the top surface. Mr. Sorayama designed the box especially for this occasion.
In addition to shoes, the lineup also included apparel. Seven styles of apparel were offered, including a scajan and a hoodie, both boldly decorated with Sorayama's artwork.
During the event, Mr. Sorayama was available for autographs and photos. Among the visitors, there were a few foreigners. This was an indication of the popularity of Mr. Sorayama, who is well-liked all over the world.
We interviewed Mr. Sorayama directly! What are his thoughts on the collaboration?
The collaboration between PUMA and Mr. Sorayama drew a great deal of attention. We asked Mr. Sorayama himself at the event about the process of creation and behind-the-scenes development.
PROFILE
. Born in 1947. After working for an advertising agency, worked as a freelance illustrator. In 1999, he designed the concept for Sony's AIBO, in 2001 he designed the cover of Aerosmith's album, and in recent years, he has been actively involved in various genres, such as working with a top maison. In 1999, he designed the concept for Sony's AIBO, and in 2001, he designed the cover of Aerosmith's album.
. First of all, please tell us about your sneakers. Why did you choose the "Clyde" and "Slipstream" models as your base?
Sorayama: I thought it would be easy to cook with, since it is a representative work of "Puma". That was an easy decision to make.
. I think it is unusual to use metallic materials for sneakers.
Sorayama: I wanted to put a pointy element into something authentic , and I think that's exactly what I did. I think that's exactly what I did. Puma wanted to make the logo bigger and easier to understand, but I wanted to create something that would be loved for a long time. I don't want something that is disposable. Collaborations are always a struggle. . I myself am very pleased with "Clyde.
How about apparel?
Sorayama: Sneakers went rather smoothly, but I had a hard time with apparel. It was difficult to get a satisfactory result, and we had to send samples back and forth 5 or 6 times, depending on the item.
. I guess that's how much you put into it. By the way, whose idea was the key design for the "Robot Puma Cat"?
Sorayama: That's from our side. As for the painting, it is our territory, so I was entrusted with it. What I express in my paintings has remained consistent from the past. They are "light," "reflection," and "transparency. . This time, I expressed them in the materials and the design. I hope you will see this collaboration from that perspective as well.
By the way, Puma celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, and Mr. Sorayama is 76 years old. That's almost the same age as you.
Sorayama: Wow, I didn't know that. Then I am older than you (laughs).
Sorayama-san, you continue to work energetically, but is there anything that you do on a daily basis?
Sorayama: Nothing in particular . I hate hard work (laughs). The only thing I do is walk. I walk an average of 6,000 to 7,000 steps every day, or 15,000 steps at the most. I walk around between my house and studio.
. Many people came to today's event, as Mr. Sorayama was visiting the store. Lastly, could you give a message to your fans?
Sorayama: I hope that not only my fans but also non-fans will buy it. Since this was a collaboration, I was allowed to do whatever I wanted (laughs).
Photo_Sohei Kabe
Text_Issey Enomoto
