Object size: 39.0 x 32.5 x 18.0 cm
The Plastic Body is one of the most famous works by one of Japan’s most renowned and creative post-war fashion designers, Issey Miyake. It was the highlight and catwalk finale piece of the first of a series of Issey Miyake collections which examined the relationship between the body and dress. This work inverts the concept of clothing from hiding to revealing the body, expressed here in the form of a body mould. Many works were expressed in unexpected mediums - such as this bustier made of glass fibres infused with polyester resin. Issey Miyake organised a touring exhibition called “Bodyworks” including examples of this work in 1983-5 to museums and galleries in Tokyo, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and London. It can be ingeniously worn like a cuff (without attachments). Notable people who have worn this include Grace Jones and Lisa Lyon.This sculptural piece belonged to Judith Chung, co-founder of multi-label boutique Man and His Woman (1972-1993) which was one of the significant shops in Orchard Road that brought in the most desirable global high fashion labels in the 70s-80s. She was the first person to bring in key Japanese labels including Issey Miyake, and remains in touch with the designer. She brought four pieces into Singapore. Her tastes and shop shaped an entire generation of fashionable people in Singapore and the region.
