Kyotographie: Kawada Kikuji x Iwane Ai

KYOTOGRAPHIE is pleased to present “Kawada Kikuji x Iwane Ai” at Japan House London, bringing together two of Japan’s most compelling photographers in a rare opportunity for UK audiences to encounter their work.
A leading figure in Japanese photography, Kawada Kikuji has remained at the forefront of the medium for more than eight decades, continually reinventing his practice. The exhibition includes works from his seminal 1965 photobook “Chizu (The Map)”, a profound reflection on the lingering scars of post-war Japan. It also highlights “The Last Cosmology”, a series born from his fascination with celestial phenomena, alongside selections from his most recent works, which the 93-year-old artist continues to share through social media.
In her first major exhibition in the UK, Iwane Ai presents works from her acclaimed series “Kipuka”, which explores the lives and cultural identities of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. The exhibition also features photographs from “A New River”, created in Japan’s Tohoku region during the COVID-19 pandemic. Captured beneath the glow of illuminated cherry blossoms at night, these atmospheric images weave together contemporary realities with figures drawn from Japanese folklore.
Both artists have previously exhibited in KYOTOGRAPHIE. Presented in partnership with Japan House London, this exhibition marks the first photography exhibition to be held at the venue and offers a dialogue between two generations of artists whose practices continue to expand the possibilities of photography.

Outline

Exhibition Title

Kyotographie: Kawada Kikuji x Iwane Ai

Exhibition Period

3 June 2026 – 18 October 2026

Venue

The Gallery, Japan House London

Address

101-111 Kensington High St, London W8 5SA, United Kingdom

Opening Hours

10:00–20:00 (Sundays and public holidays: 12:00–18:00)

Admission

Free

Artists

Kawada Kikuji, Iwane Ai

Organiser

Japan House London

Producer

KYOTOGRAPHIE

Scenography

Hiromitsu Konishi (miso)

Curator (Kawada Kikuji)

Sayaka Takahashi (PGI Gallery)

Supported by

Epson UK Ltd、JTI UK