My encounter with Isamu Gakiya predates the launch of Ryetender.

 

We had a mutual acquaintance.
For me, this person was like a mentor. Through their introduction, I met Mr. Gakiya.

 

That was when I first saw his work.
To be honest, it was completely different from what I had imagined. In a good way, I was totally surprised.

Ideas flying in from far outside expectations.

Lines that extend endlessly, despite seeming effortless.

There was a persuasive power in his free brushwork that couldn't be explained by logic.

I was captivated at first sight.

 

 

Later, I started this brand.
I finally had a canvas to express myself.

 

Of course, expression always comes with constraints.
Even more so in business.
I think everyone feels that at some point.

 

But the more I felt those constraints,
the stronger my admiration for Mr. Gakiya's light and free expression became.

 

Someday, I want to work together.

 

It didn't take long for me to think that.
However, the brand's capacity back then was far too small.

I couldn't bring myself to reach out.

 

 

Now in Ryetender's sixth year.
The range of expression and the distance we can reach have gradually expanded.

 

At that moment, I took the plunge and reached out.
Anticipation and apprehension coexisted in my heart.

 

The answer was yes.

I was simply happy.
My heart raced.
I could work with the person I admired.

 

We translated the original drawings entrusted by Mr. Gakiya into knit stitches.
We repeatedly made test knits with the factory to ensure not a single line was lost.

 

 

And so, a single sweater was knitted.

Holding the finished sweater, I asked Mr. Gakiya:

What exactly is this motif?

 

 

"It's a piece I made a long time ago.
I liked parcels from overseas, so I drew this motif to cover the address."

 

And he continued:

 

"This creature with outstretched arms is from the movie 'The Prophecy'."

 

"I see," I thought.
So that was the story behind it.

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