Fear, Loneliness, and Emptiness: The Motivation Behind My Photography

— Mr. Kitamura, what was your first impression when you saw D'Agata's photographs?

KitamuraIt was a shock. Not just the subject matter, but first and foremost, the use of color. And before even looking at individual works, I felt a collective power. The moment I entered the exhibition space, I felt like a fan.

D'AgataOn the contrary, I am a fan of this gallery and Japanese photographers. I am very honored to be among the ranks of great Japanese photographers who have a significant influence on the art world. When I had drinks with Daido Moriyama in Shinjuku, I was as happy as a child.



— By the way, in how many places have you taken photographs so far?

D'AgataI've shot in an incredible number of places. The photographs exhibited here alone were taken in about 60 cities.

— Why do you travel to so many places?

D'AgataBecause my source of energy comes from the fear, loneliness, and emptiness I feel when I am alone in an unfamiliar place. That state of mind is my motivation for taking photographs. That's why I need to go to unknown lands and meet unknown people.

KitamuraThose emotions are wonderfully captured in your photographs. Even in your landscape and window photos, that sense of loneliness, fear, or dreaminess is imbued. It's rare for a photographer to evoke such feelings from landscape shots.

Emptiness and Ecstasy: Two Sides of the Same Coin

D'AgataCome to think of it, something like this happened once. I got drunk in El Salvador and somehow ended up far from the city. When I woke up, I had no idea where I was. I always try to capture that feeling of 'being in emptiness.' However, at the same time, I also take photos when I am in intimate situations with others. Myself in emptiness, and myself in ecstasy. For me, these are actually two sides of the same coin. The intense fear of solitude and the ecstasy I feel in connection with others – both are moments where I feel truly alive.

— The series of photos of deserted streets and the sensual, cinematic photos taken in bed are displayed one above the other. Does that also represent that idea?

D'AgataPrecisely. They are meant to contrast those adjacent states. The emptiness symbolized by the framed cityscapes, and the flow of the physical body. In my mind, they are not so far apart.