Kachōga: Japanese Inspired Photography
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
A vernissage and two weekends of exhibition. Demanding, but clearly worth it.
Just before the opening speech, I looked up and counted. Around 80 people. More than I have ever had at a vernissage.
At first glance, it could be taken as a series about birds. But that is not what shaped it. My Japanese inspired photography grew out of an interest in Japanese culture. The use of empty space, and the idea of 無心 (Mushin, no-mind), guided how these images were created.
Many visitors described a similar sensation while moving through the exhibition. Slowing down. Looking more carefully. Staying longer with each image.
The setting played its part. The Rochlhaus in Thaining, a renovated 17th-century farmhouse, keeps much of its original character while adding modern comfort. Wooden floors, thick walls, soft light through small windows. All added to the atmosphere.
Food and drinks were shared throughout. A mix of Western and Japanese influences. Simple and carefully prepared.
On the evening of the vernissage, a concert. Music by Masaya Ishiwaka, performed by Talistrio. Four Japanese Seasons consists of four movements, brief and focused, like haiku, each expressing a season.
In a side room, visitors could try guided origami. A slower, deliberate activity. Hands occupied, attention narrowing.
Conversations went beyond photography. Naturally, there was talk about birds, nature, and conservation. But many discussions moved into different realms, towards attention, states of mind, and the role of art as a way to step out of the constant pace of modern life, and shape the way we view the world.
Over the course of the exhibition, more than 200 people visited. Some decided to take a piece home. It means a lot when a work of mine touches someone enough for them to want it in their space.
Preparing and running the exhibition was demanding. Time-consuming, and it took me away from other projects. So this will most likely be my last exhibition this year.
Now there is a book to finish.
All photos in this post were taken by me. No AI was used.
Brilliant! Both aesthetically and emotionally. The Japanese influence is powerful!