BAZAAR catches up with fashion revolutionist Jean Paul Gaultier in Tokyo as he kicks off the first stop of his Fashion Freak Show musical.
With the echo of rehearsing singers bouncing around the halls of Tokyu Orb Theatre in Shibuya, we made our way through the winding halls and was greeted with a door marked ‘Jean Paul Gaultier’. Here for the unveiling of his Fashion Freak Show musical in Tokyo, I still couldn’t believe we were meeting THE Jean Paul Gaultier, despite already waiting behind his very door. Compared to the hushed corridors we were just walking through, what greets us in the room is the biggest ray of light and energy.
Dressed in the classic Jean Paul Galutier sailor stripped shirt, our interview begins with a flurry of warm pleasantries and his partner threatening us not to steal the chocolates whilst he’s away. From the origin of the Fashion Freak Show to his thoughts of the current state of fashion, Jean Paul is truly unafraid to be unapologetically himself.
Why name the musical the ‘Fashion Freak Show’?
JPG: Throughout my entire life, I have been deeply involved in the world of fashion as a designer. I have always seen fashion as a form of self-expression, and everyone, in their own way, possesses a unique and beautiful essence that sets them apart. We are all beautiful freaks, each with our own individuality. For me, fashion is not just about creating garments; it is about putting on a show. Whether it’s a fashion show, a musical performance, or a dance routine, I have always been captivated by the art of showcasing ideas and emotions. Overall, my journey in the fashion industry has been driven by a passion for showcasing the extraordinary, embracing the unconventional, and blurring the lines between fashion and performance.
With the Fashion Freak Show almost being like a biography, why did you choose the medium of musical as compared to a book for instance?
JPG: I have always struggled with verbal and written communication, particularly in visually capturing the essence of my ideas. However, through the power of images, fashion became my chosen medium of communication. Through photographs and the attitudes they conveyed, I found a voice that I couldn’t express through words alone. Fashion shows, in particular, became the ultimate platform for self-expression, as they allowed me to showcase the spirit of garments and the way they were worn. This became my alternative to writing a book, as it embodied the ideas I carried within me. This desire to express myself led me to create a fashion show that would go beyond traditional conventions, showcasing different ways of expressing oneself. The “Fashion Freak Show” was born from this concept, an opportunity to display the diversity and uniqueness of individuals, celebrating them as beautiful and extraordinary “monsters.” Through this fusion of fashion and performance, I discovered the most effective way to communicate my innermost thoughts and desires.
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And why did you choose Japan as your first stop of the Fashion Freak Show in 2023?
JPG: Japan holds a special place in my heart because I’ve always felt a deep connection to the country. When I first started my fashion journey in Paris, I faced financial constraints and lacked resources. However, there came a pivotal moment when I had the opportunity to showcase my designs. I found a contract with a prestigious and fashionable shop in Paris that was searching for a fashion designer to create their own collection. In a stroke of luck, I proposed that I not only design their collection but also organise and present a fashion show to cover the costs. Surprisingly, they agreed. Although the shop was associated with a French VIP, it was through this collaboration that I established a connection with Kashiyama in 1978. It provided me with the freedom to express myself more fully, and it marked the beginning of my long standing relationship with Japan. This love story with Japan has endured throughout the years, becoming an integral part of my career and creative expression.
How would you want the audience to feel whilst watching the Fashion Freak Show?
JPG: Joy, joy and more joy. I want to evoke a sense of euphoria and happiness.There is an undeniable connection between music and movement, and it infuses the show with a vibrant energy. When I envision a fashion show, I aim to capture the essence of joy, uplifting spirits, and radiating positivity. It is a platform where dreams and creativity come alive, where surprises await at every turn. My goal is to curate an atmosphere that embodies these elements, creating a joyful spectacle that transcends the mundane and leaves a lasting impression.
What do you think about the state of fashion at the moment?
JPG: Fashion, in essence, is a reflection of the times we live in. It serves as a mirror to society, capturing both the positive and negative aspects of the present moment. It embodies the evolution of life itself, constantly morphing and changing in response to shifting needs and desires. What was once considered extraordinary or unconventional may now be commonplace, demonstrating the ever-evolving nature of fashion and its ability to adapt to societal shifts. As a young and rebellious individual, there is an inherent desire to change the world and challenge the status quo. Some of the ideas I once dreamed of have now become normalised, while others continue to push boundaries and redefine what is considered “normal.” This evolution excites me, and after dedicating five decades to the world of fashion, I now find myself drawn to creating shows that go beyond traditional fashion presentations. My interests have expanded into realms of dreams and fantasy, still intertwined with fashion but exploring new territories. This constant pursuit of novelty and imaginative expression is a testament to the transformative power of fashion and the ever-present desire to create something extraordinary.
What’s the number one fashion rule you live by?
JPG: Is to be something like a chameleon. The concept of being a chameleon perfectly captures the essence of adaptation. Like a chameleon changes its colours, adaptation requires remaining open to what is happening around you, without denying or suppressing what needs to be expressed or conveyed. It’s about embracing the fluidity of situations and being receptive to the ever-changing environment.
Where would you like to see Jean Paul Gaultier in the next five to ten years?
JPG: Looking ahead, I envision myself in my old age, sketching away and sharing my creations with my cat or perhaps a partner who still accompanies me on this journey. It reminds me that the ability to play and indulge in one’s imagination is timeless. While this self-involvement may occasionally lead to isolation, it also grants the freedom to find joy and amusement within oneself. This ability to have fun independently is a precious gift that adds richness and vitality to life.
