Shomei Tomatsu (1930-2012) was a renowned Japanese photographer known for his influential work that captured the post-World War II period in Japan. He was born on December 19, 1930, in Nagoya, Japan. Tomatsu's career spanned over five decades, during which he explored various themes and subjects, including the American military presence in Japan, the aftermath of the atomic bombings, Okinawa, and the cultural shifts in Japanese society. Tomatsu emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1950s and 1960s, a time when Japan was undergoing rapid social and political changes. He became associated with the influential photography collective "VIVO" and the magazine "Provoke," which sought to challenge traditional photographic conventions and explore new visual language. Tomatsu's work often focused on the consequences of war and the effects of modernization on Japanese society. One of his most notable series is "Nagasaki 11:02" (1961), which documented the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. This powerful collection of photographs captured the physical and emotional scars left by the bomb and its impact on the survivors. It remains an iconic representation of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare. Throughout his career, Tomatsu received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to photography. His work has been exhibited worldwide, and he published several books, including "Oh! Shinjuku" (1969), "Chewing Gum and Chocolate" (1971), and "The Pencil of the Sun" (1995). Shomei Tomatsu's photographs continue to be recognized for their artistic vision and documentary importance. His work remains influential and serves as a testament to the power of photography in capturing historical moments and social transformations.
Measures 8.75 x 11.28
Verso is blank.
Mounted to archival quality paper.