Over the last few years on my visits to NYC, I started noticing a lot of people in my mutual circles of cool kids all having these incredible hair cuts and styles. I thought maybe it was just a NY thing, always being ahead of the cultural game, but then I started to notice a common thread - Vacancy Project. And the person behind it - Masami Hosono. I think Masami has helped cultivate not only fashion culture in NY but also queer hair culture. Which, we all know is a real thing ( thinking back to my extreme asymmetrical art queer cuts of early 2k's ). Masami has brought an effortless edge to her cuts, photos of each on the gram that feel like they could be a DAZED editorial, with an attitude to kind playfulness. When I finally got to connect with Masami on a friend level, I was even more impressed with them. There is never a moment when laughter, ideas, or creativity isn't part of the conversation when hanging with them. A truly inspiring artist who is at the leading edge of what culture looks like today into tomorrow. Enjoy our Q n A with this modern day legend.
Who are you ?
My name is Masami Hosono. I was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. I moved to New York in 2012 without knowing anyone and speaking any English.
I worked 2 hair salons then opened VACANCY PROJECT 2016 spring.
I am a hairstylist / creative director. I am also a model and a chef.
Why do you make your work?
I love haircuts and love meeting new people every day.
I believe that this job makes a lot of sense to me as my personality too.
What do you believe in?
Community and creative design. Both very important to me.
One thing you say no to?
I would say no to imitation/copy/lie.
One thing you say yes to?
I would say yes to be friends :)
What change would you like to see?
I wish the world more cultural diversity makes us accept, and even to some extent not because of trendy.
Name one thing that makes you happy?
Delicious food and friends. (Sorry I need this two)
How would you describe your personal routine ?
I have extremely sensitive skin. I am trying to keep very simple. wash face with room temperature water and sometimes use shea butter in winter.
What did you want to be as a child?
Superstar. Hasn't change yet.
Can you remember one solid piece of advice you've gotten for the growth of your work?
A lot of practice. I believe that hard work always pays off.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
I would love to collaborate with NOTO! VACANCY needs hair product which create good chemistry for beauty industry and community.
Who is one person in culture that you feel is making positive and inspiring change ?
Michelle Obama