Dear friends,
I find it hard to believe, but it’s been a year since I began this newsletter. I am glad I have been able to keep writing on a regular basis and to stay connected to you. And I am grateful to you for taking the time read.
With this issue of the newsletter, I had intended to be releasing my newest book, Kanda, 20 April 2021. It is a portrait of a particular place on a single day, but also a meditation on the means, methods, and goals of photography on the street. I designed it entirely myself, and I was excited to share it.
Unfortunately, when the books arrived at my home from the printer, they were in damaged condition.
I am still learning, and that is part of the reason why I make very limited editions. Among other lessons here is the need for trustworthy partners and vendors. I do still plan to bring out the book, and when I do, you will be the first to know. But first I must find a different printer and bookbinder, so it may take some time. Thank you for your patience and interest.
I am also, by the way, still working on my other book, Old River. It’s a complicated work, and the structure plays a central role. Among other things, it requires a delicate paper made in Japan; unfortunately, such paper is very hard to print well on. So, my designer and I have been working through different combinations of paper and printing processes. Earlier this week, he sent me some new samples and they are beautiful. There is much still to be done, but I see the path forward.
Beyond that, there is more I am looking forward to in 2022: exhibitions that are already being planned, publications that have expressed interest in my work. So as I move into the new year, I am going to focus my energies on those physical projects. With that in mind, I plan to write less and perhaps a bit less often. Instead of monthly, I will simply send this newsletter as I have meaningful news to share.
I do hope you will continue to join me.
I’ll leave you with a favorite photo that I took in the past month. It’s a single exposure, reflecting off of a department store window display in the shopping area of Ginza.
I wish each of you the very best for the holiday season.
Joel