[Title] bridge
[Artist] Groovisions
[Date] March 17 – May 17, 2005
The motif of this window is “bridge.” A river is an important element in the process of urban development. However, because it also serves as a boundary between two lands, there may be instances where two different cultures evolve on both banks. The “bridge,” where the two cultures can meet, has also historically played an important role in fusing cultures.
There was a bridge which had once existed near Maison Hermès. This bridge, called Sūkiyabashi, had been built across the outer moat of the Edo Castle, and was an invaluable presence to the area for nearly 300 years since the beginning of the 17th century. The moat was later reclaimed and the bridge was destroyed in 1957, but the place remains bustling with people now as it had been before. The present attempt is to recreate a cheerful, merry bridge inside the window, which exists in the midst of such history.
The bridge, shining in a lemon color, is built inside the window facing Harumi Street. But it is a slightly odd scene: the bridge hangs upside down from the ceiling and the products are as well. In addition, the floor has been replaced by a mirror, and clouds float upon the walls, unfolding a world of daydreams. In the twelve small windows, there are bridges built in front of different background sceneries, and various products are displayed before them taking inspiration from the scenes.
The designers who chose this motif of “bridge” as part of Hermès’ annual theme, “As the river flows” were Goovisions, marking their third time to undertake our window display. The idea was born from their wish that this window would become a “bridge” to connect Hermès with the people walking in the urban streets.
Groovisions
Groovisions is a design team founded in Kyoto in 1993. They relocated to Tokyo in 1997. Known for their hit character “Chappie,” they have been active in various fields, surpassing the realm of design. Some of their activities include art direction for the Eames Design Exhibition (Tokyo), and participation in the Super Flat Exhibition (LA).