How does one capture the essence of family over time?
In "Family," Masahisa Fukase embarks on a profound journey to document his own family from 1971 to 1989. Returning to his hometown of Bifuka in Hokkaido, Fukase utilized the family-owned photography studio to create portraits that are both intimate and experimental. He often subverted traditional family portraiture by incorporating unrelated individuals, playful expressions, and unexpected elements, infusing the images with humor and a sense of spontaneity. This approach not only reflects the dynamics within his own family but also comments on the broader concept of familial relationships.
The series serves as a visual narrative of the Fukase family's journey through time, capturing moments of celebration, aging, and eventual separation. The inclusion of an autobiography by Fukase offers readers a deeper understanding of the personal context behind the images, shedding light on his motivations and the emotional undercurrents of the work.
Highlights:
- Temporal Narrative: The photographs chronicle nearly two decades of the Fukase family's history, providing a poignant look at the passage of time.
- Innovative Composition: Fukase's use of humor and unconventional elements challenges the norms of family portraiture, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
- Emotional Depth: The series delves into themes of life, death, and the impermanence of relationships, resonating on a universal level.
"Family" stands as a testament to Masahisa Fukase's ability to blend personal narrative with broader themes, creating a work that is both deeply intimate and universally relatable. This new edition invites readers to reflect on their own familial bonds and the ever-changing nature of life.
