Samford students showcase unique + modern kimono designs April 12

This weekend, Samford University students are presenting their original kimono designs at the Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center after a semester of learning about Japanese craftsmanship and contemporary fashion.

The Modern Kimono Fashion Show is Sunday, April 12 and will feature around 30 student-designed and -created kimonos made from fabrics brought from Japan via the Samford Global program.

It will be hosted by the Matsuno-Mori Initiative, a Tokyo-based project founded by Izumi Hama and her husband, Dr. Koichiro Hama that aims to deepen international collaboration by engaging with the Japan-America Society of Alabama, sister city commissions, academic institutions and cultural leaders.

Birmingham’s oldest sister city relationship began in April 1982 with Hitachi, Japan, and since then, students in The Magic City have traveled there to learn about Japan’s history and culture.

Mary Tyler Gurney, an assistant professor of costume and makeup design at Samford, worked with the students involved in the project, of which she said the “level of creativity and dedication has been outstanding.”

“The project has followed a structured, real-world design process. Students began with cultural research and concept development, followed by sketching and design proposals. From there, they moved into sourcing the provided materials, patterning and garment construction, with regular critiques and faculty feedback along the way.

“Collaboration has been a key component, not only among theatre design students, students across the School of the Arts and campus, but also with partners in cosmetology and cultural organizations, culminating in a fully staged production.”

Mary Tyler Gurney

In addition to the runway presentation at the fashion show, an exhibition of traditional kimonos will be displayed in the lobby, allowing guests to experience both the historical craftsmanship and modern evolution of the kimono. There will also be an opening performance featuring tap, shamisen and marimba.

The show is designed to show an appreciation not only for the fusion of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary fashion design but also a rare look at the kimono as an evolving art form rather than a historical artifact.

“The students have navigated working with authentic Japanese fabrics and construction methods, pushing them to adapt and innovate. A particularly meaningful aspect of the project has been how students have engaged with the cultural significance of the kimono, creating designs that reflect both respect for tradition and their own artistic voice.”

Mary Tyler Gurney

All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Sister Cities Commission in support of cultural exchange programs.

When: Sunday, April 12 at 1:30PM
Where: Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center (1200 10th Ave S)
Tickets: Tap here to purchase for $25

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