Photographs from a small group of islands
Due to its very nature, urban art isn’t destined to last. Demolition, wilful damage or simply time all too often eradicate what once entertained. A few of my favourite pieces in Tokyo were this tiny Audrey Hepburn stencil, and these kimono and seppuku inspired works. All of which are now sadly long gone.
That said, the odd one or two do manage to survive. Astro Boy continues to blast off in Shibuya, and this huge, Hello Kitty-related street painting remains intact to resolutely stare back.
Despite living in the west of Tokyo, it’s the city’s eastern neighbourhoods that really fascinate me. They are older, more traditional areas that hark back to a different era, a different way of life, and in many ways, a very different Tokyo indeed.
In the downtime between each race, the trusty comforts of Tokyo’s committed gamblers are the same, simple staples enjoyed the world over, namely cheap booze.
And a steady supply of tobacco.
Not your average Japanese salary man, and definitely not your average light.
Reflecting on life, or perhaps just where all the fruit and vegetables went?
