Renowned photographer Naoya Hatakeyama’s new photo book “Tsunami Tree” focuses on the aftermath of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, particularly on the unique trees that survived the disaster. Hatakeyama’s artistic style highlights the resilience and beauty of these trees, capturing their struggle and the surrounding landscapes as a symbol of hope and recovery. The book, containing over 100 carefully selected photos, showcases the artist’s ability to center his subjects in each frame, creating a powerful and emotional visual narrative. The exquisite printing quality also perfectly replicates the changing skies and natural elements captured in the photos.
Today, I want to introduce you to the highlights and charms of photographer Naoya Hatakeyama’s new photo book, “Tsunami Tree.”
The Shift in the Theme of Post-Disaster Photos
Naoya Hatakeyama is known as one of Japan’s leading contemporary photographers, often seen at modern art exhibitions. His unique style of capturing the relationship between urban and natural landscapes from a rational perspective has received high praise and recognition in BLAST! magazine. However, after the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, his focus on photography shifted dramatically. His hometown of Rikuzentakata was severely affected by the tsunami, with his childhood home washed away and his beloved mother lost. Overcoming this sense of loss, Hatakeyama felt strongly that this disaster needed to be documented. Since then, he has been actively researching the post-disaster landscape of Rikuzentakata.
In 2017, Hatakeyama discovered a unique tree on the banks of a river in Rikuzentakata. This tree, half dead on the right side and full of leaves on the left, had suffered significant damage from various objects carried by the tsunami, preventing nutrients from reaching the damaged area, causing half the tree to wither. This tree visually records the event of the earthquake.
Impressed by this tree, Hatakeyama decided to search for similar trees in other towns affected by the tsunami. He spent six years traveling along the coasts of Fukushima, Miyagi, and Iwate, photographing the impressive trees that convey memories of the earthquake. Finally, in February 2024, this collection of photos became a book.
“Tsunami Tree” features over 100 photos carefully selected from Hatakeyama’s vast collection by himself and the editor.
Point 1: The Expressions of Trees
Regardless of the page you turn to, the main focus is always on the tree. Each photo showcases a different tree, from a towering tree in an open field to a tree on the brink of collapse that managed to survive, creating a captivating visual narrative. Hatakeyama’s artistic style is evident in his ability to emphasize the subject at the center of each photo, showcasing his exceptional eye as a photographer.
Point 2: Signs of Recovery
In addition to capturing the impact of the tsunami on the trees, Hatakeyama’s photos also highlight various efforts towards recovery in different regions affected by the disaster. By examining the background of the central trees in the photos, one can see the presence of workers operating excavators, donning disaster helmets, and cleared debris in the reorganized vacant areas.
Moreover, monumental civil structures such as huge seawalls, rebuilt highways, and wind turbine towers for wind power, all blend seamlessly into the frames, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of nature and artificial components in Hatakeyama’s landscapes.
Point 3: Excellent Print Quality Enhancing the Beauty of the Sky
Since this photo book focuses on the theme of “trees,” the landscapes of the “sky” are also prominently represented in the background. Capturing the varying colors and expressions of the sky, from vivid blue skies to evenings with drifting clouds or fog enveloping the space, adds depth and emotion to the photos.
The phenomenal printing quality that accurately reproduces the nuances of the sky on paper is remarkable. To ensure the highest quality prints, meticulous attention is paid to paper selection, discussions with the printing company, and rigorous color correction throughout the production process.
Especially because Hatakeyama does not use digital cameras, the prints are crafted by the artist himself through woodblock printing. Recreating the color and texture of landscapes depicted in woodblock print onto paper is no easy task. Hatakeyama takes great care in reproducing the works through woodblock printing, showcasing his confidence in the quality of “Tsunami Tree.”
“Tsunami Trees” is not only a visual representation of the aftermath of a disaster but also a heartfelt journey towards recovery expressed through tree landscapes. Each photo captures a range of emotions and stories, making this collection a significant reflection of Hatakeyama’s post-disaster endeavors. You can preview the book on the Shogakukan website, so be sure to check it out.
Naoya Hatakeyama’s “Tsunami Tree”
“Tsunami Tree”
Written and Photographed by Naoya Hatakeyama
Price: ¥7,700 (tax included)
Release Date: February 28, 2024
Shogakukan Website: Link
Preview: Link
Written by Hisashi Saito