Ehime (Gerry Johansson) (2020)

The photographs in Gerry Johansson’s 2020 photobook “Ehime” were taken in 1999, during his third visit to Japan. After focusing on Tokyo during his visits in the 1970s and 80s – and the deep impression Tokyo’s transformation and modernity had left on him – Johansson became curious to discover what Japan looks like away from the cities, and an invitation for a residency program afforded him the chance to explore Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku.

In carefully constructed (yet seemingly effortless) greyscale photographs taken in Imabari, Uwajima, Tsushima and other parts of Ehime, Johansson concentrates on natural features and signifiers and symbols of Japan’s rural landscape, exploring traditions and the deeper aspects of Ehime’s local culture.