The enduring allure of Fukase's work, which gazed into the self through the lens.

Masahisa Fukase was known as a leading figure in Japanese photography until 1992, participating in the 1974 exhibition 'New Japanese Photography' at the Museum of Modern Art, New York (MoMA), which first introduced the world to masters of modern Japanese photography such as Ken Domon, Shomei Tomatsu, and Daido Moriyama.

While focusing his lens on familiar subjects like his wife, family, crows, and cats, he pursued the question, 'Who am I?' His work captivated many. Yet, he also reflected on his past, stating, 'I could never make anyone happy, including myself, by involving them in my photography. Is taking photos enjoyable?' He also left behind words that reveal his internal conflict: 'My work, done while wanting to quit everything, might be a revenge against being alive.'

Fukase's works, imbued with a sense of urgency and solitude, garnered international acclaim. He was actively engaged in exhibitions at prestigious museums worldwide, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK and the Centre Pompidou in France, and also dedicated himself to nurturing young talent.



However, in June 1992, shortly before his 60th birthday, a severe head injury from an accident abruptly ended his career as a photographer. He passed away in 2012.

This exhibition, the first in seven years, showcases Fukase's precious unpublished works and masterpieces. The title 'Incurable Egoist' is derived from an essay by his former wife, Yoko, published in 'Camera Mainichi' in 1973. In it, Yoko wrote, 'The me you photographed was nothing but yourself.'

Fukase seemed to excavate what lay beyond the photograph, gazing into himself through his art. His work continues to radiate an undiminished allure, offering profound inspiration.