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Daido Moriyama's photographic obsession explored at Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson

exhibition · 2026-05-19

In Paris, the Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson showcases an exhibition dedicated to Daido Moriyama, emphasizing his enduring fascination with photography rather than presenting a chronological overview. Since the 1960s, Moriyama has engaged with the art form daily, exploring it through various mediums including images, books, and writings. His 1972 publication, 'Shashin yo sayonara' (Farewell Photography), defied traditional conventions. He also contributed manifestos to Japanese photography periodicals like Asahi Camera, Provoke, and Shashin Jidai. Moriyama frequently visited locations linked to Nicéphore Niépce, the pioneer of photography. Many of his ordinary photographs reflect back on the medium itself, serving as a mirror to photography. The exhibition revolves around Moriyama's quest for the core of photography.

Key facts

  • Exhibition at Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson in Paris
  • Focuses on Daido Moriyama's obsession with photography
  • Not a traditional chronological retrospective
  • Moriyama has maintained a daily relationship with photography since the early 1960s
  • 1972 book 'Shashin yo sayonara' broke from 'good' photography rules
  • Published essays in Asahi Camera, Provoke, Shashin Jidai
  • Made pilgrimages to sites associated with Nicéphore Niépce
  • Exhibition structured around Moriyama's obsession

Entities

Artists

  • Daido Moriyama
  • Nicéphore Niépce

Institutions

  • Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson
  • Asahi Camera
  • Provoke
  • Shashin Jidai

Locations

  • Paris
  • France

Sources