"Form follows function" is one of the most famous sayings in the discipline of design. The japanese material culture elevated this philosophy to unsurpassed heights, while retaining aesthetics as a most important feature.

Particularly, the tradition in building Samurai armours is undoubtedly one of the most important achievements in the History of design. These armours are a near perfect example of pure beauty stemming from pure function.

Flexible flaps made of iron and lacing ensured protection, agility and ventilation. Complex shapes were the product of an efficient defence. Colored lacquer preserved the iron from the elements. Silk lacing indentified the clan and rank of the samurai.

"Fukigaeshi" displays my own personal interpretation of such an aesthetic mastery.

This is actually how I see these armours through my XXI eyes, their meaning transposed at the present time, with their bright colors, puzzling shapes and hyperbolic appearance.

I'm actually making a reflection on Design itself with these artworks, and offering an interpretation about how any art from the past could be - should be, maybe - experienced as contemporary.

My special thanks to all those who supported me and gave precious advice during this time, particularly Simone Pompei, Ren, 0009 and AICollection.