Nobuyoshi Araki, one of Japan’s most provocative and prolific photographers, has been a major influence on contemporary art, especially within the niche of shibari photography. His work encompasses a wide range, from the intimately personal to the avant-garde and controversial. Known for his candid and unfiltered portrayal of themes like sexuality, life, and death, Araki’s photography often combines raw emotion with intense artistic detail. His work with shibari, in particular, feels like an exploration of both beauty and vulnerability—something that drew me in as I started collecting his books.
Araki’s early career took off with the photo collection “Sentimental Journey,” capturing the raw intimacy of his honeymoon with his late wife, Yoko. Over time, this autobiographical approach has become a hallmark of his work. His lens seems to capture life’s transient beauty and intensity, including taboo subjects and unique perspectives on Japanese urban life, sexuality, and traditional forms like shibari. His ability to blend shibari into a wider narrative of human experience is something that resonates deeply, especially given his juxtaposition of traditional Japanese aesthetics with raw, modern themes.
What’s fascinating is Araki’s use of black-and-white photography alongside colour, giving a gritty yet sophisticated edge to his subjects. His collections, such as “Tokyo Lucky Hole,” delve into the hidden sides of Tokyo’s nightlife and sexuality, pushing societal boundaries and, at times, sparking controversy. He’s often criticised for blurring the lines between art and explicit content, but this is arguably part of what makes his work so impactful. Through Araki, I’ve come to appreciate how shibari photography can capture more than aesthetic appeal—it can evoke powerful feelings and tell stories that go beyond the ropes themselves.