From Shimbashi to Okinawa 2024-2025_

Japan: Vivid, Authentic, Timeless
Japan evokes a unique resonance. For some, it’s the delicate elegance of its cuisine; for others, the intricate beauty of its refined art forms. Many are captivated by the bold strokes of manga or the disciplined poetry of martial arts. But for me, it’s Japan itself—vivid, authentic, timeless. It stands in striking contrast to European countries: profoundly different, yet never strange, never extreme, never distant. I find an effortless harmony with it as if its rhythm has always echoed within me.

A Tapestry of Moments
My series of 14 images captures the multifaceted nature of Japanese life, weaving between the expected and the unexpected. I shape my narrative through a carefully composed, tile-like arrangement, where each image contributes to a broader, immersive tableau. At the edges, the wild pulse of Japan’s metropolises—Osaka and Tokyo—bursts forth, their neon arteries throbbing with energy. Moving inward to the left, Koyasan’s serene temple whispers ancient truths; to the right, Nara’s vermilion pillars rise in rhythmic harmony, like an eternal chant etched into wood and space. At the core lies a panoramic vista of Okinawa, its horizon unfurling like a held breath between sky and sea, encircled by vivid vignettes capturing the quiet poetry of daily life. The entire composition spans 7.6 meters—a visual journey across landscapes and emotions.

Jazz in Bloom
The series opens with a smaller piece adorned with cherry blossoms that defies expectations. Instead of the traditional tranquil spring tableau, it features a Japanese jazz band heralding the season, their melodies threading through the petals like an unexpected breeze. It’s not the usual vision linked to cherry blossoms, but for me, it captures the fleeting, fragrant essence of the moment with unparalleled authenticity. The jazz notes linger in the air, much like the delicate scent of the blossoms after they’ve fallen—ephemeral, yet unforgettable.