Japanese Street Photography Masterpiece: Misawa by Daido Moriyama
Daido Moriyama’s iconic image of a stray dog on the streets of the city, Misawa, is a masterpiece of Japanese street photography. This oversized gelatin silver print, signed in pencil in English and Japanese, is a testament to Moriyama’s unique and unconventional approach to capturing the essence of urban life.
Moriyama’s Signature Style
Known for his characteristic street photography, Moriyama disregards conventional photographic norms of reproduction, documentation, and clear communication. His use of a hand-held camera and high-contrast black-and-white film sets him apart, as he intentionally seeks to blur, scratch, and mis-expose his photographs.
Impact and Influence
Moriyama, along with Nobuyoshi Araki, is a significant figure in Japanese post-war photography and a major influence both within and outside its borders. His work in the 1960s and 1970s reflects the influence of William Klein for his use of instantaneous conditions and natural light, as well as Andy Warhol for his use of repetition and the silk screen technique.
Kariudo: The Hunter Series
Misawa comes from Moriyama’s important photo book and series, Kariudo (Hunter). This series showcases Moriyama’s unorthodox approach to street photography, as he seeks to capture the raw and unfiltered essence of the urban environment.
Legacy and Recognition
Moriyama’s work continues to be celebrated for its groundbreaking approach to photography. His “are, bure, boke, konpura” (rough, blurred, out-of-focus, contemporary) approach has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the world of street photography.
In conclusion, Misawa is a powerful example of Daido Moriyama’s iconic street photography, showcasing his unconventional and visionary approach to capturing the essence of urban life. As a significant figure in Japanese post-war photography and a major influence within and outside its borders, Moriyama’s work continues to leave a lasting impact on the world of photography.
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