[ad_1]
Okawara says his masks are works of art – Photo: REUTERS
The prospect of going outside every day with a different face is no longer a matter of fiction thanks to the Okawara store. For those entering the Kamenya Omote store in Tokyo for the first time, seeing Chief Okawara’s face on the wall or anywhere is a bit of a horrifying experience.
But Okawara thinks his surreal 3D printed masks will work. He launched a project called “That Face” in October this year and announced that he would pay 40,000 yen (about $ 385) to “buy” a new model of facial mask.
More than 100 people who wanted to “sell” the face contacted Okawara. After editing the details of the face to the utmost satisfaction, to ensure that no one recognizes the seller, Okawara begins 3D printing.
By questioning potential customers about new products, Mr. Okawara believes that these super realistic 3D skins will sell out. “Most of the people I ask don’t have a specific purpose when buying. They see it more as a work of art.”
In addition to 3D masks, Okawara’s Kamenya Omote store also sells many other masks – Photo: REUTERS
Okawara is expected to sell each mask for 98,000 yen (about $ 950) and plans to add new faces. It is not yet clear when he will start “buying” faces, but according to the new boss of more than 30 years, he wants faces from abroad.
When asked if he feared prosecution if the buyer used the mask for malicious purposes, Okawara was calm. “Do they stop selling bandit hoods or use them? There is no point in accusing the manufacturers of their customers’ criminals.”
Thanks to 3D printing, this mask can be washed and dried – Photo: REUTERS
Okawara looks at her own face printed on the 3D mask – Photo: REUTERS
Okawara wears a face-printed mask outside the store in Tokyo – Photo: REUTERS
The price of a mask with Okawara’s face is 74,000 yen, about 747 USD – Photo: REUTERS
