Daid? Moriyama

Provoke by Daidō Moriyama is a highly influential photography book that showcases the work of the eponymous Japanese photography collective. Published in 1968, the book captures the raw and gritty aesthetic of post-war Japan through a series of black-and-white photographs. The group aimed to challenge traditional notions of photography and push the boundaries of the medium.

Overview

Daidō Moriyama, along with Kōji Taki, Takuma Nakahira, and Takahiko Okada, formed the Provoke collective in 1968. The book Provoke serves as a visual manifesto for the group, highlighting their distinctive style and artistic vision. The collective aimed to capture the chaotic and ever-changing nature of Japanese society during that time.

Key Points / Ideas

1. Challenging conventions: The Provoke collective sought to challenge the traditional norms of photography by embracing a more visceral and subjective approach. They rejected the idea of capturing a single decisive moment and instead focused on creating fragmented and disorienting visuals that mirrored the chaotic nature of post-war Japan.

2. Blur and grain: The use of blur and grain in the photographs became a signature style of the Provoke collective. This intentional distortion of images aimed to capture the fleeting and ephemeral nature of urban life.

3. Visual language: The book explores the notion of a new visual language for photography. It emphasizes the importance of individual interpretation and expression, rather than conforming to established norms and conventions.

4. Influences from street photography: The Provoke collective drew inspiration from street photography, particularly the works of William Klein and Robert Frank. They incorporated their gritty and candid aesthetic into their own photographs, resulting in a raw and unfiltered portrayal of urban life.

5. Intimacy: The photographs in Provoke often capture intimate moments and personal emotions. They provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of the people living in post-war Japan, highlighting their struggles and resilience.

Conclusion

Provoke by Daidō Moriyama is a groundbreaking photography book that challenges traditional notions of the medium. Through its visually arresting black-and-white images, the Provoke collective aimed to capture the raw and gritty reality of post-war Japan. The book's key points highlight the group's rejection of conventions, their experimental use of blur and grain, and their emphasis on personal expression and interpretation. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of photography and the impact of social change on art.

For further exploration, readers can delve into the works of William Klein and Robert Frank, who influenced the Provoke collective. Additionally, books such as The Americans by Robert Frank and New York by William Klein offer similar gritty and candid portrayals of city life that resonate with the aesthetic of Provoke.