Masahisa Fukase (Hokkaido, Japan, 1934–2012) burst onto the Japanese photographic scene in the 60s, defying the conventions of the time and exploring emotional and personal themes in a society undergoing transformation. He fused artistic sensibility with technical skill, innovating in the dissemination of his work through magazines and photobooks, which will also be featured in this exhibition.

His extensive series ravens, (1975-1986) is, as a whole, a masterpiece that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. In it, Fukase explores loneliness, melancholy, and obsession in a dramatic personal journey. The black-and-white images of crows capture the duality of life and death, resonating deeply with the viewer.

The importance of ravens, This series, exhibited exclusively in Spain for the first time, lies in its ability to evoke emotions and existential reflections stemming from Fukase's inner search as an artist. By identifying with the crows, he invites us to explore the human soul. Karasu [Ravens[in the original Japanese] has influenced generations of photographers, solidifying Fukase as a pioneer of self-photography.

Image credits: Masahisa Fukase, Ravens, Erimo Cape, 1976 © Masahisa Fukase Archives.