Insight into my Identity: a Japanese, overseas resident, The Traditions that Shape Me

Published in MARIKA MAGAZINE FASHION & GLAMOUR ISSUE 4733 JANUARY as the cover feature

My journey began in Japan, where I was born. Now, as a permanent resident of Australia, my life has been into multi distinct cultures. Over 1,300,000 Japanese people are residing overseas, with the sounds of their language heard on the streets in Australia as well.

As I grew up, I struggled with being perceived as 'different'. In Japan, creativity was often viewed as being outside the norm, leading me to search for a place where I could be myself without judgement. My travels took me to different countries, and I found that my Japanese identity was still a vital part of me.

It was in the freedom of being outside of Japan that I found the comfort to embrace my true self. While I still love my birthplace, I found that being in a new environment facilitated acceptance of my preferences and aversions as integral facets of my individuality.
Despite the challenges of being bound by societal norms, I yearned to be embraced by society and to love my homeland wholly. This yearning led to the kimono project, where I collaborated with Australian artists to showcase the contribution with the current fashion of enduring beauty of wabi-sabi, and the reverence for the four seasons, which still exist in my soul deeply.

Through the process of attaching to the culture, I laid bare my identity and unveiled the invisible 'self' that resides within. This project serves as an homage to our unique cultural perspectives and individual values, each participant shining as an integral part of this vibrant tapestry.
(Statement by Nene)