Dior is exploring a bit of high-spirited playfulness with a one-off capsule collaboration with new wave Japanese artist Otani Workshop.
The 24-piece collection, which was launched in stores 4 January, symbolises the blending of the luxury house’s renowned elegance with the whimsical artistry of the Japanese ceramic sculptor. This collaboration transcends mere surface-level charm: it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, where Otani’s meticulous ceramic work finds seamless expression in Dior’s refined tailoring and intricate embroidery.
There is a sense of joy and lightheartedness in the collection, even as it retains the sophistication and quality that are synonymous with the Dior brand.
More about the Dior and Otani Workshop Collection
The collection, presented by Dior Men’s Artistic Director Kim Jones, revolves around a charming ceramic creation of Otani Workshop — a small, green monster named Tanilla.
The creature is featured across the collection, from bomber jackets and t-shirts to accessories like ties, jewellery, bags and the new B33 High Top sneakers. Red dominates the collection – an homage to Monsieur Christian Dior who loved the colour and describes it as “the colour of life”.
Who is Otani Workshop?
Otani Workshop is not the name of an organisation but a single artist, whose real name is Shigeru Otani. He established the now famous name in 2005. He shot to fame in 2010 when fellow Japanese icon Takashi Murakami discovered his creations in Tokyo.
Otani Workshop created Tanilla in 2022. The sharp-fanged monster sculpture instantly became a hit. The artist’s other works include bulging heads, anthropomorphic vases, children and animals — all of which are inspired by nature.
The Dior and Otani Workshop collection is Jones’ first collaboration with a contemporary artist since 2021. In June 2023, Jones celebrated his fifth year at the helm of menswear with Dior Summer 2024 Menswear collection.
(Images: Dior)
This article was first published in PrestigeOnline Hong Kong.
