#Japan #Tokyo #Takashimaya #Edward Steichen #Family of Man

The Family of Man Photography Exhibition Returns

The renowned photography exhibition, The Family of Man, originally launched at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York in 1955, is returning to Japan with a fresh perspective. Running from August 12 to August 24, 2026, at the Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C., this retrospective celebrates 70 years since its original Japanese showing, encapsulating a powerful vision of love and peace across the globe.

Historical Significance

Curated by the legendary Edward Steichen, this landmark exhibition is regarded as one of the 20th century's most significant photographic collections, showcasing works from over 500 international photographers, including the likes of Robert Capa, Eugène Smith, and Henri Cartier-Bresson. It attracted more than 9 million visitors worldwide during its initial tour and is a milestone in Japanese photographic history, initially displayed in 1956 at Takashimaya. The original committee included prominent figures like photographer Ihei Kimura and architect Kenzo Tange, making it a crucial cultural moment for Japan.

Reviving the Original Message

The upcoming exhibition will feature approximately 115 carefully selected photographs that embody the timeless themes of humanity's interconnectedness. As we approach the 100th anniversary of Japan-Luxembourg diplomatic relations in 2027, the exhibition will also include modern perspectives from photographers from Luxembourg and Japanese photojournalists from Nihon Keizai Shimbun, responding to contemporary issues such as conflict, disaster, and climate change. This blend of historical and modern works invites reflection on how love and peace resonate with today's global struggles.

Noteworthy Photographers and Their Works

Among the notable pieces to be showcased is Winogrand Balock’s ethereal image of a child in the forest, which captures the purity of human existence at its origin. Robert Capa’s poignant photograph of a wedding in post-war Czechoslovakia emphasizes the strength of human joy and regeneration beyond the harsh realities of war.

Other significant contributors to the exhibition include:

• - Werner Bischof, who poignantly captured the bond between mother and child during a famine in India.
• - Alfred Eisenstaedt, known for his vibrant documentation of childhood innocence.
• - In justice-themed works, American photographer John Fotoria immortalized Japan's first post-war elections, highlighting the significance of human rights and civic engagement.
• - A defining series by Yosuke Yamabayashi documents the aftermath of atomic bombings, presenting the continued impact of war on humanity’s face.

Finally, W. Eugene Smith's image of children hand in hand symbolizes a hopeful future, reminding us of the resilience found in our youth.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: August 12 (Wed) - August 24 (Mon), 2026
• - Location: Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C. Main Building, 8th Floor Hall
• - Hours: 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on August 19)
• - Admission: 1,200 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for university and high school students, free for middle school students and under.
• - Organizer: Nihon Keizai Shimbun

This exhibition, with support from the Luxembourg National Audiovisual Center and the Embassy of Luxembourg in Japan, showcases the universal aspiration for peace that transcends time and borders. It stands as a reminder of the continuing relevance of Steichen's vision, addressing today's pressing questions about humanity in a divided world.

For more information, visit the official website.