Capturing Sumo as a Sacred Ritual, Passed Down for Over a Millennium

Yoshihiko Ueda, also a curator at Gallery 916, was born in 1957. His past works include 'QUINAULT' (1993), which captured the pristine forests of Native America, and more recently, the 'Materia' series, which explored the raw power of the sea in Yakushima and Higashimazui as the 'origin of life'.

Ueda has also showcased his unique vision through portraits, such as 'Portraits' (2003), featuring 39 prominent Japanese figures including Ryuichi Takada and Shōtarō Yasuoka. For his latest project, he chose the undisputed Yokozuna Hakuho as his subject. Ueda has captured the aura that only those who have mastered mind, technique, and body can emanate.

The exhibition displays photographs that vividly portray sumo as a sacred ritual, passed down for over a millennium. From the scent of the chonmage (topknot) that seems to waft from the images, to the crisp white of the sacred rope, and the lustrous sheen of the silk mawashi (apron), the photos convey the greatness of the Yokozuna. It is an exhibition that allows visitors to fully appreciate the essence of portraiture, offering a glimpse into Hakuho's character alongside his imposing presence.



Yoshihiko Ueda: 'Hakuho'
Dates: March 21 (Friday) – April 12 (Saturday) *Closed Sundays and Mondays
Hours: 11:00 – 20:00 *Saturdays and holidays until 18:30
Venue: Gallery 916 Small
6F, Suzue Bldg. 3, 1-14-24 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-5403-9161
Admission: General ¥800, Students ¥500 (Gallery 916 & 916 Small)