The Future of Style is Here

August 2002 (Darien, CT)...Zotos International proudly debuts the Isao Isejima Artistic Institute—a stunning and much anticipated state-of-the-art, 4,500 square foot, fully functional, fully-staffed test salon and education center.

Custom designed by world-renowned architects, New World Design Builders, Incorporated, the Artistic Institute sports an ultra- modern motif with a high tech look, yet its feel is warm and inviting.

Some of the amenities include a center stage complete with drop down screens, eight permanent, as well as 18 mobile styling stations, color balanced lighting fixtures, washing stations, a reception area, dressing room and much more.

The Artistic Institute is also equipped with the finest AV and sound systems.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN
"We have always recognized that education is key in this industry and we had a desire to provide our customers and internal staff with a state-of-the-art learning environment, offering the finest professional education in the market", states Robert Seidl, President and CEO of Zotos International. "The Artistic Institute is the embodiment of this vision and is our way of giving back to this industry."

The site will be utilized by the three professional company divisions—ISO, Joico and Zotos.

Over 100 classes and seminars per year will offer comprehensive, hands-on experience with top educators concentrating on color, texture and cutting, as well as basic and advanced techniques.

The Artistic Institute will be home to, as well as a showcase for, exceptional technical trainers and guest artists. This magnificent facility can also be transformed into a photo shoot location, creative event space or meeting site for salons, stylists, clients and other industry professionals, seating up to 150.

THE MAN BEHIND THE NAME
The Artistic Institute is dedicated to Isao Isejima, "who through his leadership and dedication has brought us to where we are today. We believe this is a fitting way to show our appreciation" states Seidl. "Without him, this incredible facility would not be here". Mr. Isejima has Shiseido in his genes. His family operated a cosmetics shop that sold Shiseido products. He joined Shiseido in 1970, working in sales. He was named Chairman and CEO of Zotos International in 1996 and then later, President and CEO of Shiseido Cosmetics (America).

Renowned for not only his many achievements, but also for his optimistic attitude and initiative, he was recently promoted to Corporate Officer of Shiseido Co., Ltd., responsible for international operations. Mr. Isejima now resides in Japan.

Design Inspiration
Chris Kofitsas, founder and owner of New World Design Builders likened this project to simultaneous set design. "The Challenge" he explains, "was the need for flexibility and duality. We used set design as the basis to guide us through the need for functionality in the salon and for the stylists. The space is incredibly flexible and versatile enough to be a full service salon as well as a superior education center",

The design objective was to create a space that was multi-functional and able to accommodate audience seating, photo shoots, meeting and events in addition to educational classes and seminars. That has been achieve d through incredible design elements such as curbed walls, silhouetted ceilings, special lighting and materials including Indian copper slate to play on light and texture to make the whole experience a positive and relaxing one within this unique space.

A VIEW INTO AI
The ceiling is exposed with cut outs mimicking the styling stations below, and a 3-D fabric canopy back lit with Color Kinetics lighting for an incredible effect and therapeutic benefits of light and color. All furniture is custom designed to insure pure relaxation and client comfort as well as stress-free versatility for the stylist.

In addition to the Artistic Institute, New World Builders also redesigned the main entrance to the corporate headquarters complete with reflecting pool, waterfall and Zen garden. "This was done to give anyone a taste of this new environment even before they walk into the building", states Kofitsas.

For educational classes, seminars and general information on the Artistic Institute, please call 800-242-9283 or 203-656-7900.

Zotos International is a leader in the professional beauty industry, comprised of Zotos, ISO and Joico divisions, that manufactures and markets a full range of hair care, texture services and hair color options for today's salon and salon professionals.