Nobuyoshi Araki "Shibari" Solo Exhibition

Untitled, detail from the "Shibari (Japanese Erotic Art)" series. 120x150 cm, 2008. Nobuyoshi Araki's "Shibari" solo exhibition is on display at Daniel Templon Gallery from June 20 to July 25. Nobuyoshi Araki is Japan's most famous contemporary photographic star, known for his erotic and sensual images of Japanese women. He began exploring photography in the 1960s, attempting to liberate all taboos of traditional Japanese society. His work focuses on the themes of sex and death, reflecting a period of rapid social change in Japan, including the rise of new female consciousness and sexual liberation.

In this recent "Shibari (Japanese Erotic Art)" series, he portrays these sexy young women according to the traditional Japanese art of bondage, depicting them in a stance of absolute submission (hanging or on a bed). These complex photographs of female bondage bear witness to the constraints of thought within traditional social conventions. "Shibari" is a complex traditional custom of Japanese eroticism, an art form where women are fully bound and submissive, presenting a perfect image akin to the traditional Japanese world, its daily customs, sexual rituals, and rigid rules.

Gijs Van Tuyl, Director of the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, wrote about his work: "Nobuyoshi Araki's photography and models engage in a passionate duel during the shoot, which serves as a ritualistic dance for both parties." The photographer stated: "I often feel that photography is like a true body-to-body encounter, very physical between a man and a woman, akin to a relationship of crazy passion."