The Power of the Individual, the Power of a Thousand, the Power of Children in Groups

Born in Kyoto in 1967, Osamu Yokonami has been active as a freelance photographer in advertising and fashion since 1994. His personal work focuses on "children" and "fruit" as subjects.

In 2009, Yokonami exhibited works of 100 children at the same Emon Photo Gallery. Later, after being overwhelmed by the sight of 1000 Kannon statues at Sanjusangen-do in Kyoto, he spent four years completing the portraits of 1000 children.

The exhibition space also showcases video and installation works. The displayed pieces capture the individuality of children, which emerges when their outward appearances are unified through the same clothing, background, and poses, using ten types of fruit—such as apples, mangoes, and peaches—alongside children as subjects. The children gaze at the camera with innocent expressions yet serious eyes. The collection exudes a peculiar strength, with subjects harboring diverse emotions while lacking a singular narrative voice.

Yokonami, who has confronted children with their pure gazes, says, "I want people to see and feel the power of the individual, the power of a group of 100, the power of a group of 1000, and the power of a collective of similar children."

Osamu Yokonami Exhibition "1000 Children"
Dates: Friday, April 25th – Friday, May 30th (Closed Sundays and holidays)
Hours: 11:00 – 19:00 (Saturdays until 18:00)
Venue: Emon Photo Gallery
5-11-12 Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-5793-5437