Michael Nischke | MADE IN JAPAN

May 30i till June 27, 2024

A Photographic Journey through Japan: Between Tradition and Modernity

The captivating cherry blossoms of Japan, captured in expressive snapshots, along with the vibrant atmosphere of the metropolis Tokyo, are the focal points of Michael Nischke’s current photo exhibition. Under the title “Made in Japan,” VisuleX for Photography in Hamburg presents a unique collection of photographs that capture the contrasts of a society between tradition and modernity.

During his numerous trips to Japan, Nischke has not only experienced the spectacular cherry blossoms but also captured the special mood in the streets of Tokyo and Kyoto. The exhibition showcases the interplay of these diverse motifs and reveals the multifaceted aspects of a society deeply rooted in its traditions yet distinctly marked by modernity.

The opening of this impressive exhibition marks the culmination of a joint journey by Michael Nischke and gallerist Vivian Laux-Eggert through the picturesque landscapes of Kanazawa, Hakone, and Kamakura at the peak of the Sakura season this April.

The images of cherry blossoms, embedded in the Japanese tradition of “O-Hanami,” are complemented by shots of the bustling megacity Tokyo. These pictures convey an atmosphere of deceleration and reflect the traces of economic crises and societal changes that shape modern Japan.

Through the use of graphic forms, contrasts, and silhouettes, Nischke manages to captivate the viewer’s gaze. Inspired by calligraphic works and traditional woodcuts, his works focus on reduction and clear aesthetics, portraying today’s Japan with its contradictions and everyday beauty. Through the use of graphic forms, contrasts, and silhouettes, Nischke manages to captivate the viewer’s gaze. Inspired by calligraphic works and traditional woodcuts, his works focus on reduction and clear aesthetics, portraying today’s Japan with its contradictions and everyday beauty.

The exhibition “Made in Japan” invites visitors to be enchanted by the beauty and diversity of Japan and to experience the unique atmosphere of this fascinating country.

Michael Nischke and Vivian Laux-Eggert in Hakone lensing Mt. Fuji, April 2024.

Michael Nischke (*1956 in Berlin-Schmargendorf) discovered photography during his school years in Oslo, Norway. He later studied photography in Cologne and assisted Professor Heinrich Riebesehl from 1983 to 1986. In addition to his practical photographic work, he has authored numerous renowned and award-winning technical books. He is considered one of the leading figures in panoramic photography in Germany and is also an appointed member of the German Society for Photography (DGPh).

In recent years, Nischke has published over 60 books and art calendars and has exhibited his works in more than 60 exhibitions, including in Japan and Taiwan. His works are included in collections in Germany and Asia. Seine Arbeiten sind in Sammlungen in Deutschland und Asien vertreten.

As a board member and curator of the BLANK ART FOUNDATION—a Munich-based art and culture foundation—his focus is on art photography and video art.