“Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.”
Toshio Shibata – one of Japan’s pre-eminent photographers - is known for generating drama through interweaving natural forces with monumental man-made structures. Shibata’s enchanting wide-angle shots locate the unexpected serenity found in largely industrial scenes, as a new exhibition at Antwerp’s Ibasho Gallery shows.
By focussing on the juxtaposition between the two exposing forces – nature and artificial construction – Shibata photographs erosion control barriers, water catchments, roads, dams and bridges across the unique landscape of his native land. However, through his lens the structures appear dream-like, the river beds look like origami and the waterfalls resemble artificial creations.
The main focus of the exhibit, titled ‘Bridges’, surrounds Shibata’s most recent work as well as a retrospective selection of his most iconic works –including a number of black and white compositions. The most recent selection of work showcases a new collaboration between Shibata and Belgian- Luxembourgish architect and engineer Laurent Ney. The two media minds meet as one by exploring structures and topography in their own unique way.
Toshio Shibata: Bridge will be showcased at Ibasho Gallery, Antwerp until October 16th 2016.
