The Expansive Joy of Mao Ishikawa
Mao Ishikawa's photography captures the essence of intimacy and the complexities of social existence. Her work, currently showcased in the exhibition 'Rogue', emphasizes the joy and authenticity of her subjects rather than a sentimentalized view. Ishikawa's images, some created decades ago, reflect her unique perspective on the interplay between personal and political identities.
- ▪Mao Ishikawa's exhibition 'Rogue' features over thirty black-and-white photographs.
- ▪Her work focuses on the intimate lives of individuals, particularly Okinawan women around U.S. military bases.
- ▪Ishikawa's photography is characterized by a sense of joy and authenticity, avoiding cynicism.
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Photo BoothThe Expansive Joy of Mao IshikawaThe photographer doesn’t sentimentalize her subjects; she pays attention to them.By Hilton AlsMay 30, 2026“A Port Town Elegy,” 1983-86.Photographs by Mao Ishikawa / Courtesy the artist and Alison Bradley ProjectsSave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyIt’s an understatement to say that we live in a world that is at least partially defined by a surfeit of images, and that the photographs we like, or remember, are those we take ourselves. Selfies or photos documenting travel, anniversaries, the great and boring events of life—we cling to these pictures as a way of navigating where we’ve been and who we’d like to be.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The New Yorker.
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