Hiroshi Sugimoto: History of History
October 12, 2007–January 6, 2008
Osher Gallery
One of the most internationally-acclaimed Japanese artists living today, Hiroshi Sugimoto is best known for his photographic series of empty movie theaters and drive-ins, seascapes, dioramas, and wax museums. This exhibition juxtaposes Sugimoto's exquisitely minimalist works—selected from the photographer's past and most recent series—with fossils, artworks and religious artifacts ranging from prehistoric to the 15th century from his own collection. The result is an extended exploration of time, life and spirituality as perceived in the contexts of nature and history. The exhibition, Sugimoto writes, addresses "recorded history, unrecorded history, and still another history—that which is yet to be depicted… like parts waiting to be assembled in a do-it-yourself kit."
Time’s Arrow, 1987. Reliquary fragment: gilded bronze, Kamakura period (1185–1333). Seascape photograph: gelatin silver print, 1980.
Hiroshi Sugimoto: History of History was co-organized by Japan Society, New York, and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. Presentation at the Asian Art Museum is made possible by support from United Airlines, the Henri and Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation, the Phyllis C. Wattis Foundation, and Fred M. and Nancy Livingston Levin, The Shenson Foundation.
