Bay of Sugami, Atami

With his serene seascape, 'Bay of Sugami, Atami', Hiroshi Sugimoto makes conscious reference to monochrome and minimalist painting, while at the same time evoking concepts and emotions far beyond the limitations of pure form and colour. Although Sugimoto's seascape photographs are actually quite small, they evoke a sense of monumentality and awe-inspired reverence. The artist presents us with images that are outside of time and place. Making a statement against the rapidity and spontaneity of contemporary society, the artist exposes his signature seascapes for several hours. They are thus closely related to the Zen concept of 'Attention!', whereby the focus is on the conscious perception of the banal, or that which is normally overlooked or taken for granted. These are transcendental or even spiritual images, with the light of the sky symbolizing illumination and enlightenment. The long exposure makes even the most turbulent sea appear calm and peaceful. The absolute stillness of the imagery becomes a means of helping the viewer to focus on his or her own visual concentration.