Masahisa Fukase emerged onto the Japanese photography scene in the 1960s, challenging the conventions of the time and delving into emotional and personal themes in a society undergoing transformation. He melded artistic sensitivity with technical prowess, innovating the dissemination of his work through magazines and photobooks, which will also be featured in the exhibition.

His extensive series Ravens, 烏 (1975-1986) is a masterpiece that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. In it, Fukase explores solitude, melancholy, and obsession in a dramatic personal journey. The black and white images of crows capture the duality of life and death, resonating deeply with the viewer.

The significance of Ravens (we present for the first time in Spain an exhibition dedicated exclusively to this series) lies in its ability to evoke emotions and existential reflections stemming from Fukase’s inner artistic quest. By identifying with the crows, he invites us to explore the human soul. Karasu has influenced generations of photographers, solidifying Fukase’s pioneering role in self-reflective photography.

Image: Masahisa Fukase, Ravens, Erimo Cape, 1976 © Masahisa Fukase Archives.