Sayuri Ichida's exhibition, 'Playing the Piano Upstairs', is a captivating exploration of a photographer's relationship with her sister, delving into the complexities of grief and sisterhood. What makes this show truly remarkable is Ichida's choice of medium and process. In an era dominated by instant smartphone photography and AI-generated images, Ichida has resurrected the ancient art of photogravure, a 19th-century printmaking technique. This meticulous and physically demanding process involves hand-printing each image using a photosensitive gelatin plate, etched and inked by hand, resulting in tiny variations that add to the print's uniqueness. This decision to work in such an arduous way is particularly intriguing, especially when considering the current state of the photography industry. As a photographer myself, I find it fascinating that Ichida has chosen to embrace a slow and traditional approach, almost as a visual metaphor for memory itself, which is mutable, obscured, and softly glowing just below the surface. This technique is a stark contrast to the fast-paced, digital-centric world we live in, where photographers often prioritize speed and efficiency over the art of the craft. Ichida's compositions, characterized by negative space and the use of reflections in still water, create a sense of quiet and emotional depth. These techniques can be achieved without specialized equipment, requiring instead patience, a willingness to wait for optimal conditions, and the confidence to leave much of the frame empty. This raises a deeper question about the role of process in photography. While the commercial reality often demands a rapid workflow, Ichida's work invites us to consider the value of a slower, more deliberate approach. It prompts us to ask whether a slower method could be more feasible and potentially more satisfying for both the photographer and the client. The exhibition, which runs until September 13 at The Photographers' Gallery in London, showcases Ichida's unique and thought-provoking approach to photography. Prices for prints start at £675 plus VAT, with profits supporting the gallery's public program. The show is accompanied by another exhibition, 'Japanese Women Photographers: From 1950s to Now', which offers a comprehensive overview of the contributions of Japanese women photographers throughout history. This dual exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary photography and the exploration of personal and cultural narratives through the lens.
