New People Store Floor, art by Yuichi Yokoyama
My recent visit to SanFrancisco introduced me to an interesting venue designed by Japanese designer Seiji Horibuchi. New People is not just a store, it’s a mini mall in the heart of Japan Town that is filled with the finest in Japanese conceptual art. The four floors of wondrous finds took seven years to actualize. The most interesting thing about the place is that it is not just a shopping experience, there is a cafe, art gallery, movie theater and a store all in one space. The space is a reflection of modern Japanese culture.
New People Entrance
You can’t miss the modern facade of the building which is nestled among older structures. Upon entering there is a cafe that is home to this colorful, very Japanese artwork by Yoshitaka Amano which graces the lobby. The piece is brightly coated with auto paint and metallic glitter.
Word Wall by Noritake a Japanese Illustrator
Store Interior Detail, Japanese toys are some of the most fanciful around.
Lolita Dresses are the Japanese Goth expression. There is an entire floor devoted to this style under the title of the “Peace Now” collection. They asked me if I wanted to try one on but that just seemed rediculous, I don’t think I could have buttoned the first button!
In addition to the black line of clothing there was an interesting twist on costume, I believe it was called “Valentina“. These dresses were very colorful and ornate with ruffles and themes and I was told that this style has been around in Japan for 400 years and that adults wear it regularly as an evening dress option. Here are some look-a-likes.
Maids Dresses (seriously)
A visit to New People in Japan Town is in order if you are in the area of San Francisco, CA. It’s one step up from China Town with all the bells and whistles.
