This exhibition features works that photographer Ittetsu Matsuoka has collected over many years, as well as new photographs taken during his visit to Yamanami Kobo, a welfare facility in Shiga Prefecture, and collaborative works with artists affiliated with the facility.

At the talk event held at the venue that day, Ittetsu Matsuoka, Kanwa Yamashita (Director of Yamanami Kobo), artists Rikuto Yoshida and Yuki Ino, and Rina Park from HERALBONY, who planned the event, took to the stage.


“Park: For a photographer, isn’t it a bit daunting to have someone paint on top of your work?

Matsuoka: Yes, it is. But I didn't see them as 'artists with disabilities,' but rather as 'people who are very good at painting.' So I had no hesitation. In fact, I was more excited to see how it would mix.

Yamashita: From our staff's perspective, the act of 'painting' is an extension of their daily lives. For them, it's closer to 'play' or a 'daily routine' than art. So, painting on Mr. Matsuoka's photos wasn't anything special; I think they felt like, 'If I can paint, I will.'

Matsuoka: That's what's so great about it. They just paint, completely bypassing social meaning or evaluation. When I saw what they painted on my photos, I didn't think 'good' or 'beautiful,' but rather, 'the world looks a little different.'”

The meaning behind the title "Distant Closeness"

“Park: You came up with and named this exhibition's title, "Distant Closeness," didn't you, Mr. Matsuoka?

Matsuoka: Even with people who are difficult to communicate with verbally, there are moments when you understand them through their tone or rhythm, right? I thought that was "distant closeness." Even if you don't fully understand, you feel a connection somehow. That sense of distance is what I trust the most.

Yamashita: I completely agree. The staff at Yamanami Kobo don't strain themselves trying to "understand" others. They simply live in the moment together, and that's it. So, there's a kindness that doesn't get too close.

Park: It's the same for HERALBONY. We value "feeling" over "being understood." So, the phrase "distant closeness" felt connected to the core of our activities.”

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What is "normal"?

“Park: The two of them in your photos, Mr. Matsuoka, look so natural. It made me wonder again, what is "normal"?

Matsuoka: That's right. In Japan, "correctness" and "efficiency" tend to take priority, don't they? But when I look at them, a more human pace of time flows. They don't care what others think, and they can say what they like. I think that's what true "normal" is.

Yamashita: They don't create dislikes or difficulties. They are flat with everyone and provide a sense of security. That's why they are special two within Yamanami. It's like "their presence softens the atmosphere."

Yoshida/Ino: (Playing together)

Matsuoka: ...That's the best interaction (laughs).”

Supporting, yet being supported

“Matsuoka: When I went to Yamanami Kobo, I realized something. The real heroes are the staff who support them on-site. While they and I are on the expressive side, this world exists because of the gaze of those who support. I really wanted to convey that, and in fact, I included those words in the final draft of the message for the exhibition. Due to balancing with the exhibition, it was ultimately cut.

Yamashita: Thank you. But we are supported by them. The reason we can think, "Today was fun too," is always because of them. No matter how tired we are, seeing their smiles makes everything else insignificant (laughs).

Park: Listening to your story, the meaning of "supporting" is turned on its head. It's like supporting, yet being supported. I thought that was true symbiosis.”

The above is a partial introduction to the talk from the article. Please read the full article for many heartwarming words and thoughts.

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Exhibition works also available on the online store

"Untitled #2" Original Artwork
Rikuto Yoshida

"Untitled #4" Original Artwork
Rikuto Yoshida

"Untitled #36" Original Artwork
Yuki Ino

"Untitled #29" Original Artwork
Yuki Ino

>See all works

Art T-shirts featuring exhibition works

[Ittetsu Matsuoka x Rikuto Yoshida] Printed T-shirt "Untitled #9"
+2 other artworks

Art T-shirts featuring drawings by artist Rikuto Yoshida on Matsuoka's photos are also available. Three artworks that convey a trust beyond words between these artists who express themselves in different genres and methods are prominently printed.

>New T-shirt collection