Japan Designs A One-Of-A-Kind Kimono For Every Country Involved In The Olympics
Kimonos for Montenegro (left) and Uganda (right). Images via Kimono Project
Famed for its hospitality, Japan is treating each participating nation of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as a VIP and honoring every culture. Using the kimono as a canvas, it has created a piece of art for every country with traditional painting techniques.
The robe-like garment is Japan’s national dress, and through a harmonious, years-long project called the Kimono Project, international outreach association Imagine Oneworld hopes to share the country’s tradition while extending its appreciation for all parts of the world in intricate fashion.
The art representing England, for instance, largely draws from the Gothic architecture of Westminster Abbey, with roses blooming throughout the kimono. Its sash celebrates English icons like Big Ben, London buses, rock musical instruments, horse racing, sandwiches, teapots, and top hats.
Parading elephants blow out water—with peacocks and the Taj Mahal in the reflections—in the Indian kimono, while the tribute to Canada is unmistakable with its autumnal hues and maple leaves.
According to My Modern Met, there were plans to showcase all the kimonos at the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony, but these had to be scrapped due to COVID-19 restrictions. You can, however, enjoy the stunning artworks online. Have a glimpse at a small handful of the masterpieces below.
Ivory Coast
Image via Kimono Project
East Timor
Image via Kimono Project
Afghanistan
Image via Kimono Project
Iceland
Image via Kimono Project
England
Image via Kimono Project
South Korea
Image via Kimono Project
Singapore
Image via Kimono Project
USA
United Kingdom
India
Canada
Paraguay
Pakistan
Italy
[via My Modern Met, images via Kimono Project]
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