The second part of the twelfth edition of Prada Mode is currently underway in Osaka, following the conclusion of the Inujima Project held earlier this month.
The two-part cultural initiative, developed in collaboration with renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima, showcases her long-term transformation of the island of Inujima and continues through to the 15th June at Umekita Park in Osaka.
The Inujima Project, held from the 4th to the 6th of June, provided guests with a private preview of Sejima’s 17-year architectural and community work on the island, located in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. The programme included a guided tour, music and artistic performances in historical buildings, and the unveiling of a new permanent pavilion designed by Sejima and donated by Prada to the Inujima Life Garden.
Inujima, once a centre of copper smelting with 5,000 residents, had seen its population fall to around 40 by 2008. That year, Sejima was invited by the Fukutake Foundation to reimagine the island’s built environment as part of the Benesse Art Site Naoshima. Her work has included renovating homes, constructing galleries, creating a community garden, and designing visitor accommodation to support deeper engagement with the island.
Now open to the public, Prada Mode Osaka is taking place in a SANAA-designed pavilion within Umekita Park, one of the world’s largest urban parks, directly connected to Osaka Station. The structure, featuring a café, information centre and event space, is hosting an exhibition curated by Sejima that includes models, videos and documentation of her work on Inujima.
Following a private members’ day on the 7th of June, Prada Mode Osaka opened to the general public on the 8th of June. The programme includes conversations and workshops led by Sejima, further exploring the intersection of architecture, environment and community.
Speaking on the project, Sejima said, “In Osaka, a city with historical ties to Inujima, this experience will be shared and expanded to reach a wider audience.” She described the theme as “Symbiosis” — a blend of history, architecture, art and daily life.
Since its launch in 2018, Prada Mode has been staged in cities including Miami, London, Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, offering audiences immersive cultural experiences across art, music, food and design.
