“VISIONARY JOURNEYS” BY LOUIS VUITTON OPENS IN OSAKA’S NAKANOSHIMA MUSEUM

words by NATALIE GAL

From July 15 to September 17, 2025, the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka welcomes visitors to an exhibition celebrating 170 years since the founding of Louis Vuitton. Visionary Journeys, curated by fashion historian Florence Müller and designed by Shohei Shigematsu–OMA, is an immersive exploration of the house’s legacy through a cultural and artistic dialogue with Japan.

The exhibition unfolds in twelve thematic chapters and features 1,000 objects, including over 200 Japan-specific artefacts. While tracing the evolution of Louis Vuitton, from its roots to becoming as a global symbol of luxury, the heart of the exhibition lies in its deep connection with Japan. This bond is one of shared elegance and sophistication, expressed through both historical references and contemporary collaborations.

Objects on display span from early pieces influenced by Japonisme to modern-day works created in partnership with Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama, Rei Kawakubo, and NIGO. But the Japanese inspiration appears not only in exhibits, it is also echoed in the exhibition’s design: pieces and artefacts are presented on floating tatami platforms, mirrored above by a ceiling of suspended tatami lights, an homage to Japanese aesthetics.