Tamiko Nishimura: Journeys | Allison Bradley Projects
Tamiko Nishimura “Eternal Chase – Kesennuma, Miyagi Pref.”, 1975. Signed and dated on verso. Vintage gelatin silver print.
Printed by the artist in 1975. Paper: 10 x 12 in (25.4 x 30.5 cm) Image: 6 1/8 x 9 1/8 in (15.5 x 23.3 cm)
Courtesy of the artist and Allison Bradley Projects. © Tamiko Nishimura
Written by: Lauren Levesque
Alison Bradley Projects is thrilled to present an extraordinary solo exhibition by Tamiko Nishimura, a momentous occasion as it marks her debut in the United States. This is a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to experience Nishimura's art, which illuminates everyday moments and takes viewers on a whimsical and theatrical journey through her unique perspective on the world. The exhibition, curated by the esteemed Pauline Vermare and accompanied by a publication with Dashwood Books, will be on view from April 25th to June 8th, 2024, in the vibrant heart of New York’s Chelsea neighborhood.
Tamiko Nishimura “My Journey – Tokyo (#13)”, 1979. Signed and dated on verso. Vintage gelatin silver print. Printed by the artist in 1979. Paper: 8 x 10 in (20.3 x 25.4 cm) Image: 6 1/8 x 9 1/2 in (15.6 x 24.1 cm).
Courtesy of the artist and Allison Bradley Projects. © Tamiko Nishimura
‘My Journey’ is one of the first pieces to pull the viewer into Nishimura’s world. This image is beautiful: the light highlights the grocery bag and hides the fruit in the outdoor market. The cinematic image transports the viewer to what feels like a different world. In this period, capturing a candid image could not immediately be posted for the world to see but developed and nurtured. The viewer also gets to glimpse the Eastern world and what appears to be a tranquil day. The impression left from this image is a yearning for the past.
Tamiko Nishimura “My Journey III – Tokorozawa, Saitama Pref.”, 2022. Signed and dated on verso. Modern gelatin silver print. Printed by the artist in 2024. Paper: 11 x 14 in (27.9 x 35.6 cm) Image: 8 7/8 x 13 1/4 in (22.5 x 33.5 cm)
Edition 1 of 5. Courtesy of the artist and Allison Bradley Projects.© Tamiko Nishimura
‘My Journey III’ is a celebration of new beginnings. When gazing at this photograph, one can't help but feel a surge of excitement—the captured fireworks and their different explosion times evoke a nostalgic feeling. The emotional depth that Nishimura can capture is simply awe-inspiring; the black-and-white film allows for a haunting yet optimistic embrace. The photograph feels personal, and the artist invites viewers to see the world through her eyes and experiences.
Tamiko Nishimura “Eternal Chase – On the Ohfunato line train, Miyagi Pref. (#016)”, 1972. Signed and dated on verso Modern gelatin silver print Printed by the artist in 2015.
Paper: 11 x 14 in (27.9 x 35.6 cm). Image: 8 7/8 x 13 1/4 in (22.6 x 33.6 cm). Edition 1 of 5.
Courtesy of the artist and Allison Bradley Projects. © Tamiko Nishimura
‘Eternal Chase’ is bleeding with melancholy. Nishimura can manipulate her film and have it sit and hover over her film as she snaps a shot of the individual. Her work is intentional and pours over as she demonstrates her methodology of capturing deep, isolated emotions. The sense of a peaceful dream world is evident in this image, as it feels sleepy and organic upon reflection.
Tamiko Nishimura “Shikishima (#062)”, 1970 Signed and dated on verso, by artist. Post printing Vintage gelatin silver print on baryta paper. Printed by the artist in 1970.
Paper: 10 x 12 in (25.4 x 30.5 cm) Image: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4 in (15.6 x 23.6 cm).
Courtesy of the artist and Allison Bradley Projects. © Tamiko Nishimura
