Request materials
ALUMNI
Shiro Araki
Costume DesignerKnown for creating organic forms through the fusion of various materials, both artificial and natural, this distinctive approach to creation has led to the design of costumes for notable figures such as Lady Gaga, Misia, Kou Shibasaki, Masataka Kubota, and for the collaboration between Millennium Parade x Belle (Kaho Nakamura).
Why I Chose ESMOD
Until then, I had no experience with fashion or craftsmanship. After leaving my job, I was determined to embark on a new challenge, so I carefully gathered information. What attracted me to ESMOD was the opportunity to learn the technical skills of garment-making from scratch. I attended an open day, and the calm and welcoming atmosphere of the school, along with its small class sizes, immediately appealed to me, leading me to make my decision on instinct.
Student Life at ESMOD
I faced a heavy workload, especially in pattern making, where I worked tirelessly to keep up with the demanding lessons. During my second year, in a styling class, I created garments—or rather sculptural pieces—using scrap materials. It was there that I first discovered the joy and depth of craftsmanship. In presentations, I also learned the importance of the process, from generating ideas to materializing them. A teacher introduced me to the field of costume design, and it was then that I realized I could express myself more freely. This led me to become fully absorbed in the creative process.
Post-Graduation and Future Vision
After studying costume design at the Arts University Bournemouth in the UK, I returned to Japan and became an independent costume designer. Currently, I primarily create costumes for artists. My future vision is to create as many original, artistic costumes as possible. I aim to work in spaces where people can share emotional experiences, such as in live performances, theater, and film, with the goal of establishing the role of costumes as art installations in these fields.