#Japan #Tokyo #AXIS Magazine #Martin Margiela #Ettore Sottsass

AXIS Magazine Vol. 237: A Fusion of Art and Design

On July 1, 2026, AXIS Magazine releases its 237th volume, diving deep into the lives and works of two influential figures in the design realm: Martin Margiela and Ettore Sottsass. The magazine, published by Axis Inc., a prominent Tokyo-based design firm, is known for its bilingual format and high-quality layouts, catering to both design enthusiasts and professionals. This latest edition continues that tradition, showcasing how these two masters have each challenged and reshaped the boundaries of design.

COVER STORY: Martin Margiela

Exploration of Unpredictability
Martin Margiela, a name synonymous with avant-garde fashion, has always embraced the unexpected as a source of inspiration. The designer's early experiences, such as creating outfits for Barbie dolls, sparked a creative spark that would culminate in the founding of Maison Martin Margiela in 1988. With his deconstructionist approach, Margiela didn’t just create fashion but altered the very language of style. After a decade of silence from the fashion scene, in which he devoted himself to art, he returns to the limelight to explore new artistic pathways. Through exclusive interviews, readers can catch a glimpse of where Margiela has been and where he intends to go.

Featured Section: Ettore Sottsass – The Aesthetics of Divergence

Ettore Sottsass stands as one of the most significant designers and architects of the 20th century. His work spans an array of domains — from striking products and Memphis-style furniture to architectural pieces and drawings. For Sottsass, design transcended mere objects; it was a vehicle to shape human experiences and perspectives of the world around us. His practice revived symbols and playful elements, inviting questions about the very essence of design. This feature will delve into Sottsass's journey, examining how his childhood memories influenced his creative ethos and how his philosophy progressed from rationalism to embracing emotional connections.

The Transition from Rationalism to Sensibility

Sottsass's reflections on design began in the early 1970s when he expressed discontent with corporate design and utilitarianism. He articulated his quest to rediscover the core of design, rooted in his early memories from growing up in culturally diverse regions of South Tyrol, Italy, and Germany. His interpretations of these memories evolved into a unique design language that redefined the norms of functionality.

The 'Valentine' Typewriter

One of Sottsass’s groundbreaking contributions is the 'Valentine' portable typewriter. Launched in the late 1960s, it radically altered the perception of typewriters, embodying a concept that resonated with affection and personal connection. Through collaborative ventures, particularly with Olivetti, Sottsass gradually navigated from rational design principles to exploring the interplay between functionality and symbolism, culminating in vibrant colors and distinctive forms seen in pieces like 'Superbox' and 'Carlton'. Insights from art curator Nagisa Sugimoto offer valuable perspectives on Sottsass’s evolution and its implications in contemporary design.

Conversations about Freedom: Michele De Lucchi and Alberto Alessi

In an engaging dialogue, Michele De Lucchi and Alberto Alessi reflect on their interactions with Sottsass, shedding light on his impact on their creative journeys. They share memories from their time spent in the Memphis Group and their collaborations, discussing the cultural responsibilities held by companies and the nuances of postmodern design. Revealing stories about their mentor highlight not just his work but how his lifestyle illustrated the values of design.

Voices from the Present: Sottsass’s Lasting Influence

Designers and architects today still draw from Sottsass's philosophy, showcasing how his works continue to resonate within the design industry. Contributions from notable figures such as Naoki Sato, Tatsuhiro Sekizaka, and others depict a vibrant picture of how different creatives interpret and apply Sottsass’s ideas in contemporary contexts.

Conclusion

AXIS Magazine Vol. 237 is more than a publication; it’s an exploration of creativity and an invitation to question established norms within the realms of art, design, and architecture. With engaging features that bridge the past to the present through the stories of Margiela and Sottsass, this issue promises enriching insights for readers eager to understand the influence that these legends have carved in the design landscape.

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Purchase Information

AXIS Magazine Vol. 237 is available for purchase online, alongside subscriptions. It can also be found at leading bookstores across Japan, offering a chance for both design aficionados and curious minds to engage with timeless concepts in contemporary design.

About AXIS Inc.

Established in 1981, AXIS Inc. has persisted as a beacon for design exploration in Roppongi, Tokyo, continuously driving forward the possibilities of design in everyday life and societal contexts.