We are witnessing an extraordinary celebration of ambiguity, redefined as the coexistence of multiple identities within a single form.

By combining diverse styles and materials, this piece transforms the body into a space that transcends gender, age, and culture.

ITS Contest 2024 finalist Tomohiro Shibuki set out to rethink his perspective on unity and continuity with this artwork, which won the GO!25 Borderless Award, sponsored by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and developed in collaboration with Gorizia Nova Gorica European Capital of Cross-Border Culture 2025. Tomohiro’s technique revolves around the use of felt as a metaphor to cover and coordinate elements that usually exist individually. Like the winter snow of his native Hokkaido, which blends natural and human elements into a seamless landscape, it radically alters our perspective on familiar surroundings. Beyond the blurred effect created by felt, he merges different types of garments into a single whole to suggest the unity of all things, even when they appear distinctly different. These ideas are deeply rooted in Zen Buddhist culture, of which Tomohiro offers his own personal perspective in the quest for unity that breaks down barriers. His project stands as one of the strongest expressions of "borderless garments."

You may have noticed that this piece is also featured in our outdoor photography exhibition, set up along the street in front of the museum and titled "Borderless." Captured by photographer Massimo Gardone, this installation extends the reach of ITS Arcademy into the urban fabric of Trieste.

Let’s now return to the section dedicated to everyday garments and move towards the scarf, where you will find your next audio guide QR code.