Work in Progress: Hiroshi Hatate - Tama-Chan
HIROSHI HATATE - TAMA-CHAN
Tama-chan is a photographic investigation of a friend who I have concern for. Sadly, her life has been directed by death and violence. Perhaps she belongs in an older Japan? The technological advancements and the fast pace of contemporary society wear her energy and spirit down. Tama-chan combats her convoluted and confused feelings with alcohol – like many Japanese. This series attempts to give her spirit through the act and negotiations that happen through photography. The images are an ode and act for revitalisation. The project is a slideshow of photographs made in collaboration with Tama-chan, of and for her.
In this interview with James Bugg and Kristian Häggblom, Okahara discusses the reasons behind his project, the process of creating a traveling/performative artist's book, and how he continues to focus on the idea of finding 'ibasyo' in contemporary Japanese society