Out of Town Blog
Japan through time and lens: ‘TOKYO Before/After’ exhibit comes to Estancia Mall
Experience Tokyo in an entirely new light with “TOKYO Before/After,” an extraordinary traveling photography exhibition. This captivating showcase will debut in Manila, inviting visitors to the third floor of the East Wing at Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons from May 17 to July 31, 2025. Prepare to be immersed in a stunning visual journey that contrasts the city’s vibrant past with its dynamic present, revealing hidden stories and perspectives that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss this chance to explore the essence of Tokyo like never before!
Curated by renowned photography critic Kotaro Iizawa, this captivating free exhibit showcases approximately 80 striking works that encapsulate the vibrant essence of life in Tokyo from the 1930s to the 1940s, artfully juxtaposed with contemporary images captured after 2010. This thoughtful comparison of two remarkably distinct periods breathes life into the evolution of Tokyo, inviting viewers to experience the city through a rich tapestry of past, present, and future lenses.
“TOKYO Before/After” is a captivating exhibit that vividly portrays Japan’s capital as a dynamic and ever-evolving organism. This photographic journey takes visitors through the transformative history of Tokyo, highlighting its early days as a burgeoning modern metropolis to the vibrant city we recognize today. The exhibit features a rich collection of significant moments, showcasing never-before-seen imagery that contrasts two specific time periods—allowing viewers to appreciate the profound changes in architecture, culture, and urban life. As you navigate through the displays, you’ll encounter striking photographs that capture not only the physical transformation of the city but also the resilience and creativity of its people, making this a compelling exploration of Tokyo’s past and present.
“The aim of the exhibition, through the works of Japanese photographers and their specific context, is to encourage a deeper understanding of Tokyo as a vast city of many, different faces. We hope that this exhibition will be enjoyed by both photography enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike,” said Mr. Ben Suzuki, Director of The Japan Foundation, Manila.
The “Before” section provides a captivating glimpse into Tokyo’s formative years during the tumultuous wartime period of the 1930s to 1940s. Renowned photographers from this era harnessed emerging techniques in photographic expression, skillfully capturing vibrant and dynamic images of urban life, where rich traditions seamlessly intersected with the rapid march of modernity. This section features a curated selection of photographs from the influential photography magazine KOGA, alongside striking visuals from the celebrated NIPPON photobook. Additionally, the collection showcases the evocative snapshots of downtown Tokyo taken by Kineo Kuwabara, a notable figure whose work reflects the complex social landscape and evolving architecture of the city during this pivotal time. Together, these images tell a compelling story of a city in transition, highlighting its resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges of the era.
In the “After” section, captivating photographs from the 2010s depict the remarkable transformation of Tokyo leading up to the 2020 Olympic Games. During this dynamic decade, photographers embraced their unique perspectives, skillfully weaving in themes of rapid digitization that characterized the era. The collection showcases the striking works of renowned Japanese photographers such as Nobuyoshi Araki, known for his provocative imagery; Mika Ninagawa, celebrated for her vibrant colors and lush floral motifs; Natsumi Hayashi, who captures whimsical moments in urban settings; and Shinya Arimoto, distinguished for his thought-provoking portraits. Together, these artists offer a rich tapestry of visuals that reflect both the cultural shifts and the relentless pace of change in this iconic city.
Ortigas Malls has elevated the exhibit experience by introducing the exclusive TOKYO B/A Day Pass, a thoughtful gesture for every visitor. Drawing inspiration from the iconic subway day passes of Tokyo, this special pass empowers attendees to indulge in a variety of delightful freebies and enticing promotions from participating merchants throughout Estancia. Each visit becomes a rewarding adventure, inviting guests to explore and savor the unique offerings of the mall while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the exhibit.
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Japan through time and lens: ‘TOKYO Before/After’ exhibit comes to Estancia Mall
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
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