#Japan #Tokyo #Photo Exhibition #Fujifilm Square #Tokuko Ushioda

A Glimpse into Tokuko Ushioda’s 'My Husband' Photo Exhibition

The Fuji Film Square is set to host an engaging photo exhibition titled "My Husband" featuring the works of renowned photographer Tokuko Ushioda from April 1 to June 30, 2026. This exhibition is a captivating journey through Ushioda's family life as captured during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Admission is free, making it accessible for all who wish to explore these poignant narratives.

Exhibition Highlights

Tokuko Ushioda, an influential photographer whose work has been part of the Fuji Film Photo Collection, will showcase around 30 gelatin silver prints selected from her iconic series "My Husband". This collection garnered significant attention upon its re-presentation 40 years later. These images, originally captured in a period where Ushioda's husband and young daughter shared their daily lives, have been rediscovered, bringing forth a profound emotional resonance—both for the artist and the viewer.

The prints depict intimate moments that reveal the mundane yet beautiful aspects of family life, all while reflecting the unfiltered emotions and experiences of Ushioda. These photographs were unearthed serendipitously during a move and later compiled into a photobook, leading to Ushioda's re-emergence on the international scene and contributing to her recent accolades.

Background of the Photographer

Tokuko Ushioda was born in Tokyo and came across photography at the Kuwasawa Design Institute in 1960. After studying under notable mentors, she began her freelance career around 1975. Shortly after marrying photographer Nobuzumi Shimao in 1978, Ushioda's life as a mother began, and her home became a tangible subject for her art. Living in a historic Western-style house built in 1888, she captured the essence of family life amidst the simplicity of her surroundings. This includes not just her husband and daughter but also mundane objects within their shared life, tapping into universal experiences of parenthood and companionship.

Interestingly, "My Husband" evokes a sense of familiarity and nostalgia for viewers. Despite depicting a deeply personal narrative, there’s an enchanting quality—almost like an ethereal fairytale—that allows observers to identify with moments that feel strangely familiar. The pictures, devoid of prior intent for public display, provide an unfiltered mirror of the photographer's subconscious feelings and experiences.

Event Details

The exhibition will take place at the Fuji Film Square Photo History Museum, located at 9-7-3 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo. The museum's operating hours will be from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last admission at 6:50 PM. Notably, the exhibition will remain open without breaks throughout its duration.

Special Events During the Exhibition

To enrich the experience, gallery talks will be conducted on April 4 and May 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Ushioda herself will lead these discussions, featuring guest photographers who will share insights and reflections on her work. These sessions are free of charge and do not require prior registration, making them an excellent opportunity for audience engagement.

Conclusion

The "My Husband" exhibition is not just a showcase of Ushioda’s captivating imagery but an invitation to reflect on the universality of everyday life. It serves as a testament to the beauty found in small, intimate moments shared within families—a theme that resonates across generations. Don't miss the chance to experience this unique exhibition at the Fuji Film Square, where art reflects life’s poignant narratives in all their simplicity and depth.

For more information, visitors can contact the Fuji Film Square at 03-6271-3350 during weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM or visit their website at Fuji Film Square.
Admission is complimentary, ensuring that this celebration of photographic art remains accessible to all. Join us in celebrating the reflective work of Tokuko Ushioda and the stories she tells through her lens.