Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour is currently embroiled in controversy as Japanese designer Hajime Sorayama accuses the singer of appropriating his artwork without permission. However, Beyoncé’s fanbase is quick to counter the claims.
Hajime Sorayama took to Instagram to post side-by-side comparisons of Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour visuals and his own futuristic sketches. In the caption, Sorayama expressed disappointment that the singer did not seek official permission, contrasting it with The Weeknd’s approach.
The images shared by Sorayama showcase Beyoncé’s stage visuals, featuring a chrome, alien-like headpiece with pointy cylinders over her ears. The resemblance to Sorayama’s designs, depicting women in similar headpieces and geometric outfits, is evident.
Despite the allegations, Beyoncé’s fans came to her defense, with some pointing out that the headpiece is inspired by Thierry Mugler and references the Metropolis film. One user highlighted that a similar headpiece was worn by Beyoncé in 2007 at the BET Awards, suggesting a historical reference.
The debate also drew attention to the influence of the 1927 German expressionist science-fiction silent film “Metropolis,” with fans asserting that the Android aesthetic is not exclusive to Sorayama. Some cited Mugler and Gaultier as other designers who have explored similar themes.
While the controversy swirls around the alleged plagiarism, the ongoing dialogue between Sorayama and Beyoncé’s fans underscores the subjective nature of artistic inspiration and interpretation.
