David Salas: Japan

About

Matsu Photographers Gallery is proud to present new work by David Salas Come along to the preview night on 13th May 2010 from 7-9 pm and meet the artist at 558 Mile End Road, London E3 4PL. We also have live music throughout the evening. The exhibition runs from 14th May- 13th June 2010 To see some of David's work visit his website: www.david-salas.com We hope to see you all there! DAVID SALAS: JAPAN There are many sides to the people of Japan. Overall, it is a culture almost obsessed with an efficient transport system, private and public hygiene and cleanliness, and it lives in the struggle between the traditions of the past and the influence of the rest of the world. For many centuries, this group of islands closed itself off to the rest of the world, and in doing so, fostered a strong nationalistic feeling; a certain pride in following rituals as they were first founded. For the past century, however, Japan has slowly started to embrace Western culture, through business and cultural links. It is that constant bipolarity that I have portrayed with this series of images. Tokyo and Kyoto are optimal exponents of this paradox. The new capital represents the modern Japan, constantly evolving and adapting. The old capital is the Japan of yesteryear, still following centuries old traditions. The Japanese stand in the middle, swaying with the ebb and flow of the tide