To know about the history of art is to be a responsible collector and artist. Japanese photographer Daido Moriyama is one of the most important artists of our time. π‘ πβ Here is his story:
11
22
84
Replies
Daido Moriyama is renowned for his unique and impactful contributions to the world of photography. With a career spanning decades, Moriyama's work is characterized by its gritty and expressive black-and-white imagery, reflecting the complex emotional landscape of postwar Japan.
1
2
16
His career is a testament to the transformative power of the camera lens and the enduring influence of an artist who dared to challenge convention.
2
1
15
β Early Life and Influences: Moriyama's early life was marked by constant relocation due to his father's work, exposing him to various regions of Japan.
1
0
17
It was during his formative years, while working in graphic design, that he purchased his first camera, a Canon IV Sb, setting the stage for his journey into photography.
1
1
15
His move to Tokyo in 1961 allowed him to connect with the radical photography collective Vivo and work as an assistant to renowned photographer Eikoh Hosoe, who imparted crucial knowledge and skills.
1
1
14
β Formative Period: In 1968, Moriyama's career took a significant turn with the publication of his first photobook, "Japan: A Photo Theater." This work captured the essence of urban life in postwar Japan with raw and unfiltered imagery.
1
0
16
His photographs, characterized by sharply tilted angles, grainy textures, and blurred movements, revealed the darker facets of society, resonating with the post-Occupation cultural upheaval.
1
0
17
β Experimental Phase: Moriyama's affiliation with Provoke's experimental magazine in the late 1960s solidified his reputation as a groundbreaking photographer. Provoke popularized the "are, bure, boke" style, emphasizing grainy, blurry, and out-of-focus aesthetics.
1
0
16
His contributions to the magazine, including works like "Eros," showcased his embrace of eroticism and provocative subject matter.
1
0
15
In 1969, Moriyama embarked on the "Accident" series, where he used his camera as a copying machine to reproduce existing media images, challenging conventional photographic practices.
1
0
15
In 1972, he pushed the boundaries further with "Farewell Photography," a nihilistic exploration of the medium itself, featuring blurred and abstracted images.
1
0
13
β Evolution and Self-Reflection: The 1980s marked a period of self-reflection and evolution for Moriyama. He delved into the essence of photography and explored themes such as reality, memory, and urban landscapes.
1
2
19
Moriyama's relentless documentation and reinvention of his own archive demonstrated his dedication to the craft.
1
0
14
β Photobooks and Publications: Moriyama's impact extended beyond exhibitions; he was a prolific producer of photobooks, with more than 150 published since 1968. His publications have become collectors' items, cherished for their artistic value.
1
0
15
β Legacy and Influence: Daido Moriyama's legacy endures through his profound influence on contemporary photography. His unconventional approach to the medium and fearless exploration of societal themes have inspired generations of photographers.
1
0
15
His impact on the art world is a testament to the enduring power of an artist who dared to capture the soul of postwar Japan through his lens.
1
0
16
We invite you every Tuesday and Thursday as we spotlight work from the broader photography community. Which photographer would you like us to feature in our next thread? Let us know in the comments below. β Join our Discord community: https://t.co/tqlflFWxGZ
3
0
19
@fellowshiptrust Great thread! Moriyama is one of the greatest. I love this! https://t.co/NlM5z54PCh
1
0
2
@fellowshiptrust What incredible images and moments...! I had never been exposed to his work ... Truly appreciate the thread... ππ§΅π·
0
0
3