Japanese photographer Yukihito Masuura’s black and white photographs document the ritual reconstruction and reconsecration of Izumo Oyashiro, Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrine. The work will be exhibited at Foto Care in New York City from April 3 – 6.
The religious tradition of reconstructing and reconsecrating Izumo Oyashiro, an event that takes place every 60 years, dates back more than 1300 years. The tradition, called Sengu, preserves centuries-old artisanal techniques of working with wood, paper and textiles – materials symbiotic with nature. The idea of the existence of truth and beauty in the natural world, a concept known as kehai in Japan, has influenced Masuura’s life-long work documenting sacred Shinto architecture.
In a statement released by Foto Care, Masuura says, “I would like to show the world the evidence that it is possible to continue beauty and maintain a sustainable society for more than 1,000 years.”
The Foto Care exhibition is historic as it coincides with the completion of Sengu for Izumo Oyashiro on March 20, 2019. The renewal of the famous Shinto shrine began in April 2008 and lasted 12 years. The previous Sengu was held in 1953.
Masuura is the only photographer to gain access to this revered shrine.
The Japanese Aesthetic of Kehai in the Photography of Yukihito Masuura
Foto Care
April 3-6, 2019
Opening Reception: Wednesday, April 3, 6:30 – 8:30pm at Foto Care
The event is free and open to the general public. To rsvp to the opening reception, go here.
Artist talk: April 2, 6:00 – 8:00pm at Bryant Park Corporation (hosted by Harvard Business School Club of New York)
To purchase a ticket, go here.
Related Articles
Documenting the Lingering Effects of the Atom Bomb
Generations of Japanese Parents and Children
Yasumasa Morimura’s Masterful Shapeshifting
