WE ARE ALL GOING TO DIE. That one’s for sure as Takashi Murakami (@takashipom) made sure to reiterate that line, and talk about creating legacy as an artist during his talk at the 20th Graphika Manila, which happened just this weekend.

Having known Takashi-san will be in the area, what are the other chances I get to be within close proximity of a living legend in the field of fashion, who’s worked with the likes of LVMH, Virgil Abloh, Kanye West, and Pharrell, to name a few? I had the itch to create something.

The FLORA BOMB was born.

Bearing the iconic Murakami Flowers on specific parts of the jacket, the bomber actually carries a new pattern I made under Love Army, which is a cross between a Bomber Jacket and a Barong – the Philippine Men’s attire. I designed it to be breathable and subtle, not to mention colored in a way that resembles the typical Barong Tagalog. I’ve seen various takes and versions of a Bomber Barong, but never in this way, which I’m very happy about. It’s always a whimsical thought to bring such references to the international stage.

On specific parts of the jacket are prints of the Murakami Flower pattern, which are very subtle, but actually show itself more at specific lighting. If cast under bright light, the flowers would cast shadows, showing a familiar visual spectacle.

It goes without saying that the jacket was made just as a gift, not made for purchase or sale. It was given to Takashi Murakami during his visit. All IP and TM/KK branding, copyright, and trademark, belongs to TM and his party. The sole purpose of this creation was to be a token for Takashi-san’s visit to Manila.

Thank you to Murakami Takashi-san, Ishida Cherry-san, and their party for receiving the item.
Thank you Graphika Manila for bringing Takashi Murakami to Manila.