Creator's Talk Special Part 1: "Mr. & Mrs. Abe" aims for the future through Ume ("Prunus Mume")

This series, titled Creator's Talk, introduces the creative intentions and thoughts embedded in the works of creators.

In this special two-part edition, we delve into the future vision of the brand.

This time, we focus on the core icon of the brand: Ume (Prunus Mume).

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ー We’ve previously discussed the sentiments behind the plum blossom (Prunus Mume) icon. What kind of brand do you envision creating through this symbol?

To explain that, I first need to clarify what Mr. & Mrs. Abe aims for in creating "iconic jewelry."

(Referenced article: Creator's Talk "Plum trees in my hometown and my thoughts on jewelry")

ー If I recall correctly, you mentioned wanting to create something that "aligns deeply with people’s lives."

That’s correct.

First of all, I believe there are two main approaches to jewelry design. One centers on enhancing the beauty of gemstones like diamonds or emeralds, while the other focuses on expressing something through design.

Of course, some exceptional pieces manage to do both at a high level.

That said, I think jewelry as an art form carries unique elements that differentiate it from mere accessories and contribute to its value.

ー What are those elements?

In addition to high-quality materials, rare gemstones, sophisticated designs, and skilled craftsmanship, we place great importance on the symbolism embedded in the jewelry.

This aspect is particularly crucial when the design seeks to express something meaningful.

ー So, jewelry imbued with such symbolism becomes "iconic jewelry"?

Exactly. Simply replicating a motif doesn’t make it iconic. What’s essential is what you aim to express.

Moreover, the motifs used in iconic jewelry are predominantly rooted in Western culture. It’s rare to find jewelry that draws from Japanese or broader East Asian cultural traditions.

For an item as personal as iconic jewelry, it’s ideal to find something that resonates deeply with your values. Some might feel a sense of loss when they realize there aren’t many icons rooted in their own cultural heritage.

ー That’s a compelling observation. And the plum blossom is certainly a quintessentially Japanese motif. Returning to my earlier question, what kind of brand do you hope to create through the plum blossom?

In short, I want the brand to write the next chapter in the "cultural history of the plum blossom."

The plum blossom has long been cherished in Japan, but perhaps because of this, it has acquired a somewhat outdated image.

Despite its rich cultural history and deep symbolism, it’s often only used in contexts that aim to evoke a "traditional Japanese" aesthetic. I find that quite limiting.

Our goal is to preserve the symbolic essence of the plum blossom while reimagining it through modern and futuristic designs and societal imagery. We want people to think, "The contemporary image of the plum blossom is synonymous with Mr. & Mrs. Abe."

ー That’s quite a conceptual ideal. What do you think is essential to achieving this vision?

I believe it’s vital to have many creators collaborate with us in reinterpreting and modernizing the plum blossom.

One example is the Mr. & Mrs. Abe Arts & Culture Prize, a contest we host. In the future, we’d also like to collaborate with artists directly.

By reinterpreting the plum blossom icon from multiple perspectives, we can gradually transform its societal image. Jewelry is just one medium of expression, and a single medium has its limits.

The most important element, however, is our customers. While we express our vision and support creators, we also need the support of those who appreciate our work.

The people who purchase and wear our jewelry are not only our customers but also our supporters. They are absolutely essential to this endeavor.

ー So, the brand exists thanks to the customers who buy and support your jewelry. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors! Thank you for this insightful discussion.