I was recently interviewed by Visual Kei Heaven! To see that they have interviewed even DIR EN GREY, it felt like an honor! I feel so happy that there are people who are so interested in my work, without them, I don't think I could follow my dreams~
Thank you so much
VKH! ^3^
My interview is here:
http://www.visualkeiheaven.us/2014/03/interview-with-kasumi-of-necrosarium.html
Fashion column is here:
http://www.visualkeiheaven.us/2013/12/trash-glamour-column-6-necrosarium.html
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VKH: First can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started?
Kasumi: My name is Kasumi. I got started with NECROSARIUM when I was 18 years old. I decided to start all of a sudden after seeing so many pretty accessories that I wanted. I don’t have the opportunity to dress up so much, so I didn't have the money to spend on something I might not wear often, and usually the price was so high. So, I decided I would try to create my own accessories. My art teachers in high school were always encouraging me to pursue a career in art, although I didn't think I could paint or draw so well, but I managed to create art through accessories. I never expected to own a fashion brand, it just happened one day without notice. Haha~
VKH: When designing a new accessory, where do you get the inspiration from?
Kasumi: Most of my designs are spontaneous; they usually occur from experimentation or messing with certain pieces of supply, and eventually seeing a design come out. Then I want to perfect it. Many pictures of Visual Kei, Gothic, and Lolita fashion helps, because I like to image accessories that might go well with the outfit.
VKH: We understand that you are also a musician. How does that and your other artistic abilities effect your accessory designs?
Kasumi: I have been into music for many years, although I haven’t taken the time to seriously get into it. I was learning bass and keyboard, but I don’t think my patience allowed me to learn fully. I want to pick it back up again though, at least if I can create any kind of music I think I will be happy. I am currently in a music project with a friend, we are trying to get some work finished, but things aren't always as planned. While I am away from her at the moment, I do want to try a small solo music project if I have the time so I can contribute more and gain more motivation. It’s hard to say how it affects my accessory design, at least I am very picky about detail and try to get a good balance, as I do with music.
VKH: It's amazing that you make all of these pieces by hand. How long on average does it take you to do a piece?
Kasumi: It’s hard to say an average, as each product is different. I think I can create a piece in 20-30 minutes if I work non-stop and all of the materials are ready, sometimes I will take an hour of non-stop working. I want to make many pieces at once so my customers don’t have to wait for their order so long. It’s hard to rush through it because I like each piece to be great quality and of course I have to give pieces time to dry, cure, etc. Sometimes it takes a week or so if it’s an order, because I make most pieces as they are ordered, and I have to sometimes wait for supplies to be received. I can go fast because I have been making these pieces for a long time over and over, but I still don’t like to rush.
VKH: You work with a variety of different materials. Why do you use those specific materials?
Kasumi: With different materials comes different opportunity, metals are durable and can be shaped, clay can be sculpted and painted, resin can turn into very unique pieces, although it is a little difficult to use I think. It requires certain temperature and skill, and a lot of patience to create custom pieces!
VKH: Is there a main material you like working with more than the others and why?
Kasumi: The main materials I like working with is metal, clay, and resin; I have also gotten into lace recently! I can shape the metal and clay, create unique resin pieces, and lace is one of my favorite materials! I still need to learn to make more items using lace, but it is coming!
VKH: Have you ever experimented with different materials? Why or why not?
Kasumi: I do try to experiment with new materials, although I am always hesitant. I don’t have much money to gamble with, as almost any money I make goes back into my shop, so I have little space for error. Although I do try to experiment at times, and it helps me to create new work or gain new skills.
VKH: What is or was your favorite piece to make? And what is or was the most difficult one to make?
Kasumi: My favorite pieces are the Vampire’s Requiem necklace and the Decadence Queen brooch. The most difficult to make I think is the Decadence Queen brooch, as I have to cut all of the thick nails by hand, sculpt and paint the clay, and sew the lace piece on this one item. I think it’s worth it though.
VKH: Do any Visual Kei artists wear your accessories? If so which artists?
Kasumi: Yes! The first Visual Kei band to wear my work was Pan-d-ra, and they really helped me to hold my brand up in a tough time. They are very supportive, and have been for over a year! I am very thankful and will continue to work with them for accessories. Also, I have been worn by HimemaniK, Jet Set Gypsies, and Velvet Eden! I will work with Jet Set Gypsies more over time, as well as do more work for Velvet Eden and HimemaniK as they wish. I have been worn by Kat Von D as well, and I want to make her more pieces! I have some more collaborations coming up soon, but won’t revel right now~ Also, I do enjoy working with smaller artists as well, and am always happy to do an interview even for a blog if asked. I love to interact with my fans in any way~
VKH: How did you come to collaborating with them?
Kasumi: First, it started when I saw Pan-d-ra vocalist Toshiki was interested in my work, so I offered him to be a model. Soon after, I was creating custom work for them, and currently am at this moment! Sometimes I am contacted to do a collaboration also, but most times I will offer my work. It really makes me happy to see other artists wearing my work with admiration, I didn't think it would happen, but I am getting better and better, so I will continue to work with other artists~
VKH: Where do you see your line going in the future?
Kasumi: It’s hard to say, since I never imagined I would have my own brand in the beginning. But, I do know that I want to travel to conventions to sell my work and meet my fans! \(^o^)/
VKH: Are you working on any new designs? If so what can we expect?
Kasumi: I am working on some new designs, I want to create more accessories using feathers, clay, resin and more~ I have wanted to do it for a while, but things don't usually happen as planned I noticed, but when I get some time and practice my skill. I want to work on new bows, horns, nails, feather shrugs, epaulets, resin pendants, and more! One day I would love to have some skirts and dresses, but as one person, it will take time for them. It's a little difficult to start so many new things, but I know I will make them~
VKH: What piece is your personal favorite? And what would you recommend to new customers?
Kasumi: My Vampire’s Requiem necklace is my favorite piece I can say, I would also recommend it! It is a very eye-catching piece with a lot of detail put into it, and it is not so expensive. I don’t like to put my work so expensive, but it doesn't mean the quality is bad! I started my brand because other brands were so expensive, so don’t worry~
VKH: Do you have a message for our readers?
Kasumi: If you want to do something, don’t be scared to try. I never expected to run a successful brand, and I don’t have so much money, but I tried and I can do it! If you want to start a brand, or a music project, or anything, don’t give up. The work and struggle can be very difficult, but once you get into it, it is worth it completely. I work 100% on my own. I manage, design, create, model, photograph (as well as my own modeling photos), stock, buy supplies, handle finances, ship, etc. I do it all by myself. If there is something you want to do, don’t be afraid to try it yourself, even if the work sounds hard or scary. Also, my most important piece of advice - If anyone tells you that you can’t do something, prove them wrong!
