Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2010

Eschewing the exoticism that characterizes much photography of Japan, “Des Photographes, Des Japons” offers an intimate look by ten artists who have long relationships with the country. Among them are Claude Estèbe, whose Jambes series reveals the “geo-taxonomy” of local subcultures by pointing a lens at women’s legs; Bruno Quinquet’s 2LDK images, which document Japan’s private spaces; and Florian Ruiz’ Shinsekai (“New World”), which depicts casualties of the Bubble in the eponymous Osaka district. Overall, the show offers approaches ranging from fine art to documentary photography.

The French Institute
Des photographes, des Japons. Photography. Until May 23, free. 15 Ichigaya, Funagawaracho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 03-5261-3933. Open Mon noon-8pm, Tue-Fri 9:30am-8pm, Sat 9:30am-7pm, Sun 9:30am-6pm. Nearest stn: Iidabashi. www.institut.jp