The Spirit of Avant-Garde Photography: Transforming “Nothing Much”

During the 1930s, a large number of works influenced by surrealism were shown in Japan under the heading “avant-garde photography”. Among these were works by Takiguchi Shuzo (1903–1979), who soon thereafter founded the Avant-Garde Photography Association along with Abe Nobuya (1913–1971). Their theoretical approach to the photographic medium would in turn influence other experimental Japanese artists such as Otsuji Kiyoji (1923–2001) and Gocho Shigeo (1946–1983). Collectively these artists have made an indelible impact on 20th-century photography in Japan, which is the subject of this seminal exhibition catalogue on their work and legacy.

19 x 26 cm