Days of Bulgarian Art and Fashion in Japan 2024: Special guest designer Ivan Donev

Tokyo became a vibrant stage for cultural exchange with the Days of Bulgarian Art and Fashion in Japan 2024 which took place from November 27 to 29, 2024. The event was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria, and the kind cooperation of Bulgarian Ambassador to Japan - H.E. Ms. Marieta Arabajieva. Under the theme “A Bridge Between Cultures,” the art and fashion show celebrated the harmony between Bulgarian and Japanese traditions, blending haute couture, performing arts, and cultural symbolism into a mesmerizing showcase.

A Stunning Haute Couture Collection by Ivan Donev

A spectacular fashion show featuring 20 haute couture pieces from the renowned Bulgarian designer Ivan Donev was the culmination of the event, held at the residence of the Bulgarian Ambassador. Ivan Donev’s collection explored the interplay of three symbolic colors:

White: Representing purity, hope, and creation, white was central to the collection, embodying the essence of renewal and timelessness. Donev likened it to a painter’s blank canvas or a writer’s unwritten page, offering infinite potential.

Black: The color of elegance and mystery, black symbolized depth and sophistication. Donev paired it with gold to reflect divine inspiration piercing through darkness.

Gold: A nod to grandeur and opulence, gold highlighted the richness of heritage and the spirituality of creation, bridging the worldly and the divine.

Materials and Techniques: Ivan Donev’s artistry was evident in his use of soft, airy chiffons and organzas paired with structured jacquards. Hand-draped textiles, intricate embroidery, and pleated soleil patterns showcased his mastery of traditional craftsmanship and modern design.

Cultural Significance

Bulgarian Dress: This creation was part of a campaign titled “From the Golden Hands of Our Grandmothers and Mothers,” and crafted from donated crocheted lace from across Bulgaria, this piece honored the nation's lace-making tradition. The lace, some over 100 years old, carried the stories and memories of its makers, preserving moments of connection and cultural legacy.

Japanese Dress: Inspired by the cherry blossom (sakura), the garment used recycled textiles dyed with natural pigments and handmade wool branches, blending Bulgarian craftsmanship with Japan's iconic floral imagery.

The collection’s elegance was further elevated by specially created for Donev’s collection exquisite jewelry from the sustainable, hand-crafted Eenabo Jewelry.

The Vision of Designer Ivan Donev

Ivan Donev, often referred to as a “child of the world,” draws inspiration from his Bulgarian heritage, Italian haute couture education, and global travels. His work reflects a universal vision of beauty and respect for all cultures, transforming every garment into a storytelling canvas. Donev's approach involves working directly with fabrics on mannequins, emphasizing hands-on craftsmanship and intuitive creativity.

Performances That Bridged Cultures

The event also featured captivating performances that echoed the theme of cultural dialogue. Connceptualized, art-directed, and cast by visual artist Irina Babanova- Eenabo, the two shows were a masterful storytelling journey through rhythm and collaboration:

Drum Duet: A rhythmic conversation between Shiro Ishizaka on the Bulgarian tupan and Eva Kestner on the Japanese taiko drum.  Initially a competition of traditional beats, the performance evolved into a joyous collaboration, symbolizing unity and mutual respect. The drummers’ smiles and artistry created an uplifting and celebratory atmosphere.

Contemporary Dance by Yuko Shimodji: Specially choreographed by Shimodji for the event, this performance fused traditional Japanese and Bulgarian dance elements. It began with serene Japanese movements and transitioned into lively Bulgarian folk steps, set to a soundtrack by DJ Venny, combining modern beats, traditional Japanese instruments, and Bulgarian choral voices.

Special Guests and Highlights

The fashion show welcomed guest Snejana Nakatani, who has lived in Japan for over 20 years and specializes in clothing made from Japanese silk kimono fabrics. Her designs added a unique element to the event, further underscoring the theme of cultural exchange.

A Celebration of Unity

The Days of Bulgarian Art and Fashion in Japan 2024 was more than an event—it was a celebration of dialogue, tolerance, and the shared human spirit. The fusion of Bulgarian and Japanese traditions, both in haute couture and performance, highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange and the power of art to unite.
A notable moment is that the event is a part of the Japan- Bulgaria triple anniversary celebrations:

115 years since the beginning of official contacts,

85 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, and

65 years since their restoration.

With luminaries from the diplomatic, business, and cultural spheres in attendance, the event reaffirmed the deep ties between Bulgaria and Japan, setting a high standard for future cultural collaborations.

The “Days of Bulgarian Art and Fashion in Japan 2024” was funded by the strategic 2024 Public, Cultural, and Digital Diplomacy Plan of Bulgaria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event showcased Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage while fostering stronger ties with Japan.
The Event Project manager in Bulgaria was the former Chairman of the Rakovski Municipal Council- Rangel Matanski, while the Japan project manager was art director Irina Babanova of media and production agency “Tokyo Heartbeat”.tEmbassy's project coordinator- Elena Kutsarova.hethe Chairman of the Rakovski Municipal Council Chairman of the Rakovski Municipal Council

Event Photos & Videos: Shuzo Kawakita
Lookbook & Runway Photography: Atsushi Hiratsuka
Hair and Makeup: Maria Nova
Model Casting and coordination for Ivan Donev’s Fashion show- Tokyo Heartbeat Production agency
Dance and Drum Performances Art Direction and Talent Casting: Eenabo
Sparkling wine sponsor- Bottega
Wine sponsors: Trakia Trading and Takase Bussan

Source: Tokyo Heartbeat
Photos: Atzshi Hiratsuka and Tokyo Heartbeat