5th May, 2026
Fabric, toy stuffing, beads and ribbon on wooden stretcher
25 x 55cm

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5th May is inspired from Kodomo no Hi, also known as Children’s Day, a Japanese national holiday celebrating the happiness and growth of children. Traditionally observed as Tango no Sekku, families display symbolic objects such as Koinobori (carp streamers) and Kabuto (samurai helmets), representing strength, protection, and hopes for a child’s future.

Historically, kabuto were worn by samurai warriors as protective armour. During the Edo period, the festival gradually became associated with boys’ growth and success, partly because the word Shōbu (iris) was linked to Shōbu (victory). Samurai families displayed helmets and armour in their homes to wish strength and prosperity upon their sons. Over time, this custom spread beyond the warrior class, and in contrast to the Girls’ Festival on the 3rd of March, the 5th of May became established as a festival associated with boys.

In this work, the kabuto is placed at the centre of the composition, surrounded by layered fabrics made from used clothing. Removed from its ceremonial setting and sewn onto a soft surface, the helmet appears fragile despite its historical association with strength and protection.
By isolating the kabuto from its traditional context, the work reflects on how cultural symbols shift in meaning when separated from their original function, inviting reflection on protection, masculinity, identity, and contemporary relationships with tradition.