Description
Tetsu Nishiyama is a Japanese designer best known for his work with WTAPS and FPAR (FORTY PERCENT AGAINST RIGHTS).
Born and raised in Tokyo, Nishiyama started his first venture FPAR in 1993 at a time when a number of burgeoning labels were eager to make their mark. Using a silkscreen printer, he began producing simple graphic T-shirts embellished with “FPAR,” which drew influences from the principle of anarchism.
In 1996 he decided to focus on establishing a more refined fashion imprint and came up with his second venture WTAPS. Stemming from his passion for utilitarian wear, the name was derived from the military term “double tap” and has gone onto become one of Japan’s mainstay streetwear imprints.
In 2011 Nishiyama opened up the GIP-Store in Shibuya, and maintains creative control of the establishment today.
More recently he announced the launch of his family-friendly DESCENDANT label and a collaborative venture DOUBTFUL AS DOUBLE with fellow countryman NIGO.