Tama Art University

Today, textile design extends beyond the conventional definition of the term, encompassing a wide variety of uses of fiber. Fabric touches our skin and has a close relationship with us from birth to death. Moreover, from primitive cultures to contemporary society, textiles have evolved as civilization has advanced, and thanks to present-day technology, their potential continues to expand.

In the Textile Design Course, students study the diverse aspects of fiber materials used in fashion, furniture design, interior design, and architecture, in preparation for creating the future of textile culture. The aim of this course is to produce students who possess a wide perspective and great sensitivity, qualities which can help them become the creative and socially aware designers needed in modern society. Textile artists such as these can build on the spirit and skills of traditional textile culture in order to seek new forms of visual expression. Japan has a long and rich tradition in dyeing and weaving, from which students can learn a great deal. Armed with this historical and technical knowledge, students can learn to interact with contemporary culture and industry by creating socially relevant products rather than limiting themselves to self-expression in their own small world. In addition, more than ever before this course emphasizes the importance of developing eco-friendly new fiber materials, a subject of global interest.

In the first and second years, students learn the basic elements of visual expression necessary for textile work, while practicing basic dyeing and weaving techniques and related basic skills. In the third and fourth years, students gain an understanding of the sociocultural context of textiles and specialize in the pursuit of creative possibilities within various aspects of textile design and art.

By making full use of the department's state-of-the-art facilities, the curriculum enables students to develop high-level specialist skills.

Educational field

Textile design including all creative activities involving fiber

Introductory education (entering the textile design world)

• Students learn the features of fiber materials and basic techniques to understand the characteristics of textile design.
• The course emphasizes broad-based visual expression centered upon personal visual and tactile experience.
• Students are encouraged to develop their own ways of seeing, feeling and thinking through themes and shows.
• Students are expected to transcend stereotypes and deal with themes with free ideas and a flexible attitude.

Basic curriculum (acquiring techniques)

• Learning the basic skills of dyeing and weaving, students develop a textile designer's mindset.
• In addition to mastering dyeing and weaving skills, students undergo basic training in textile pattern design to develop expressive techniques.
• The basic curriculum is designed to help students select a future study area.
• Students closely examine their abilities in different fields in order to progress.

Special curriculum (demonstrating acquired techniques through graduation projects)

• Students develop an understanding of the social relevance of textiles by studying the relationships between textile design, the human body, and living environment.
• Students improve their dyeing and weaving skills and develop their ideas by using various expressive techniques.
• After selecting a course, students pursue creative possibilities to express their abilities and individuality and finally complete their graduation projects.
• The curriculum encourages students to participate in joint research with industry to enhance their abilities.

Graduate school (establishing creative identity)

• Students work on their own themes and study the theory and practice of textiles in greater depth.
• The department has excellent facilities to support students in their research.
• Students demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills in the form of a thesis and graduation project.