HYPEBEAST
Issue 25 . The Mania Issue
For HYPEBEAST Magazine’s commemorative 25th edition, we chose to focus on “Mania” – the blindsided obsession, the fixation driven almost to the point of madness that serve as apt descriptors for our culture of blind materialism today.
Within this issue, we explore different facets of mania – careers which require decades of intense concentration such as that of a chef, visual artist, craftsman, athlete – as well as sectors situated at the epicenter youth (and adult) fixation including video games and football. We asked the man who often finds himself in the thick of it all, Takashi Murakami, to front this issue’s cover with one of his instantly recognizable works – along with a resealable box that comes in three colorways. He speaks to us about the darker side to his works, and his journey to becoming one of the most prolific contemporary artists of today. Additionally, Tyshawn Jones, the Supreme star, Hardies Hardware frontman and Thrasher’s reigning Skater of the Year, gives us a rare look into his busy, yet ultimately simple world.
Celebrating issue 25 with
Chef Grant Achatz, the brains behind one of the world’s top restaurants, Alinea, reveals in a conversation with us the sheer amount of dedication it takes to become a great chef – not only for himself but most importantly to inspire his team. Rockstar Games contributes an exclusive lookbook for HYPEBEAST Magazine through their highly successful games Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2, in a demonstration of the ease with which they immerse players into these virtual worlds. Sonya Sombreuil of unique up-and-coming label COME TEES speaks to us about the importance of her art to each piece of clothing and how the label’s name came about.
Joe Holder, trainer to the likes of Virgil Abloh and Heron Preston along with some of the famous toned bodies and faces of the Victoria’s Secret angels, speaks to us about his unique vision for the modern wellness. Sneaker customization is a meticulous craft, and what better man to take us behind the wheel than Shun Hirose of Japanese customization label RECOUTURE.
This issue is not only a nod to the collecting and coveting habits that most hypebeasts have now honed to perfection, it’s also a tribute to the creators who make it possible. Why do we desire a certain shoe or T-shirt? It may not be worth the 2-day lineup – or it might – but the real marvel here are the ones capable of making us act this way. You can say that we’re here for it, obviously.
HYPEBEAST Magazine Issue 25: The Mania Issue is now available on HBX.com and available soon at select fashion retailers, newsstands and bookstores around the world.
MAGAZINE
TAKASHI MURAKAMI.