Louis Vuitton Brings “Visionary Journeys” Exhibition to Osaka

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Summary

  • Louis Vuitton opens “Visionary Journeys” in Osaka, an immersive exhibition running from July 15 to September 17 at the Nakanoshima Museum of Art
  • The exhibit explores the House’s evolution through twelve themed chapters, featuring archival pieces, signature trunks, and rare collaborations
  • Highlights include floating washi paper trunk sculptures, mirrored tatami installations, and exclusive works by NIGO, Murakami, Kusama, and Kawakubo

Louis Vuitton has launched its newest large-scale cultural event, titled “Visionary Journeys,” at the Nakanoshima Museum of Art in Osaka. From July 15 to September 17, this exhibition builds upon the “Louis” display in Shanghai from earlier this summer, continuing Louis Vuitton’s series of global immersive experiences showcasing their creative legacy and ongoing cultural collaboration with Japan.

Titled “Visionary Journeys,” this exhibit has been thoughtfully assembled by fashion historian Florence Müller and creatively designed by Shohei Shigematsu. The exhibition is organized into twelve thematic sections, inviting visitors to delve deep into Louis Vuitton’s transformative journey marked by innovation, skillful craftsmanship, and worldwide discoveries.

As a captivated admirer, I embark on my voyage in an enchanting atrium adorned with eight colossal columns crafted from Louis Vuitton’s distinctive washi paper, subtly glowing like floating lanterns hanging from the ceiling. This dreamlike entrance then opens up into the Trunk Hemisphere, a breathtaking space created by the assembly of 138 trunks, representing a gateway into the brand’s imaginative realm. These mesmerizing trunk landscapes recur as focal points in the “Visionary Journeys” collection.

The tale unfolds in the Asnières room, where it delves into the history and significant moments of the House. This space presents historical images, early sketches, and original footage that breathe life into the transformation of Louis Vuitton from a small workshop established in 1854 to a globally recognized luxury brand. In the Origins section, guests are introduced to fundamental pieces such as flat-top trunks, steamer bags, and the House’s groundbreaking lock system. The story then moves on to Expeditions, exhibiting robust travel items like zinc trunks and the seldom-seen “Secrétaire Bureau Stokowski.

A significant feature of the showcase is the area focusing on Louis Vuitton’s artistic collaboration with Japan, showcasing partnerships with Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama, Rei Kawakubo, and NIGO. These items are displayed elegantly on platforms resembling tatami mats, with lighting reminiscent of tatami patterns illuminating the ceiling, resulting in a boundless, cosmic atmosphere that makes it challenging to distinguish between artifacts and art installations.

In this redesigned space named “The Monogram Canvas room,” we pay tribute to the House’s distinctive emblem, showcasing a 1896 canvas by Georges Vuitton, along with a genuine piece from 1897. Positioned at the heart of a layout inspired by celestial bodies, this presentation is encircled by iconic items that trace the motif’s heritage. The display also houses a special Workshop area, honoring the artisans who create each masterpiece, showcasing two custom-made trunks: a Toolbox Trunk for Sho Hirano, our artist and House representative, and a Courrier Trunk for Verdy, an Osaka-born designer. Historical clips from the Asnières atelier provide a behind-the-scenes peek into the intricate workmanship involved in the creation process.

The culmination of the experience takes place in a vibrant space known as Collaborations, which honors the innovative collaborations that have significantly influenced Louis Vuitton’s impact on both fashion and art. This includes the graffiti-inspired creations by Stephen Sprouse, the iconic partnership between Supreme and Louis Vuitton, and the captivating universes crafted by Kusama and Murakami. This chapter is all about showcasing groundbreaking creativity within four colorful, intricate domes that differ in size and complexity.

At the end of your exploration, you’ll find a unique souvenir shop showcasing two special items exclusively available: the “Visionary Journey” Exhibition Journal and the Exhibition Booklet – ideal mementos for those who wish to keep a piece of this meticulously crafted event.

You can reserve a spot at the exhibition right now, either by visiting the Nakanoshima Museum of Art’s website or, alternatively, you might find reservation options on Louis Vuitton’s official exhibition site.

Louis Vuitton House Osaka

Midosuji 5th Floor

2-8-16 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo Ward

Osaka, 542-0085

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2025-07-17 06:56