Tomoko Yoneda's works are always deeply connected with historicity and the memory of a place, exemplified in the series titled Between Visible and Invisible in which she looks into the inner workings of people who were tossed about by the turbulence of the 20th century, or in Scene, capturing traces of events that once occurred in specific locations. It has not been mentioned, however, that the basis of her creation is a sincere appreciation of life, all life forms including humans, and a fervent wish for peace. In this exhibition, Yoneda focuses on the ephemeral yet majestic existence of the natural world, while showcasing works that suggest, "we are all small beings in a great, uncontrollable unity."
The Crystals series (2013 to 2023) has been shot in freezing cold Finland. These tiny ice crystals disappear with the slightest change in the environment, but they also remind us of the cycle of nature in which they repeatedly reappear on the ground. The exhibition will unveil 24 works for the first time, including Crystals, Siberia I・II (1998/2023), photographed during a trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Additionally the Aurora series taken in the village of Kilpisjärvi, Lapland, and a work of soap bubbles, a theme taken from historic symbolism of 17th century painting and philosophy referring to 'vanitas vanitatum' – the fragility and transience of human life.
Yoneda, who has continued to photograph various people's memories and traces of history, has always maintained an eye for life through nature. Please look forward to the charm of Yoneda's work, which deviates from her usual practice.
Press release courtesy ShugoArts.
Complex 665 2F, 6-5-24
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Tokyo, 106-0032
Japan
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