#Japan #Tokyo #Masahiro Motoki #Kazuhiro Nakamura #awai

Celebrating a Milestone in Art and Life

Masahiro Motoki, a celebrated actor, is set to release a captivating photo book titled awai 刹那と永遠のまにまに on June 12, 2026. This book marks a significant milestone as it coincides with his 60th birthday—a moment filled with reflection and celebration of a remarkable journey through life. The book is a collaborative effort with renowned photographer Kazuhiro Nakamura, who has documented their reunion after 30 years. This artistic undertaking beautifully intertwines intimate photographs with Motoki's own words, creating a rich tapestry of memories and insights.

The photography session took place in various locations, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and London, showcasing not just the actor's public persona but also intimate glimpses into his private world. The book features personal images and evocative narratives that provide a deeper understanding of Motoki, as he reflects on past influences, including a memorable journey to India with Nakamura and their friends during their youth.

As Motoki approaches this prominent age, he invites readers to explore the current landscape of his life. He contemplates themes of time and the contrast between ephemeral moments and the pursuit of a permanent essence. The allure of his life story lies in its balance between steadfast identity and evolving thoughts, as well as between the tangible and intangible realms of existence.

In his own words, Motoki expresses, "The time I spent wandering around my sixtieth birthday has now taken on a commemorative form thanks to my friend's invitation to be photographed. In today's world, turning sixty feels like still being quite young. Although it’s slightly embarrassing to release a photo book at this age, it has offered me a great opportunity for self-reflection. This is my way of reaching out to everyone, filled with gratitude and thoughts collected along the way."

Kazuhiro Nakamura, the photographer, emphasizes the delicate interplay between the public and personal sides of Motoki. He aptly captures fleeting moments that illustrate both the actor's external demeanor and internal dichotomies. The composition of the photographs resonates with viewers, prompting reflections on their own experiences and perceptions of time.

The book introduces readers to a quiet mental journey, offering space for contemplation amid the hustle and bustle of modern life. In a world filled with distractions, Motoki and Nakamura urge us to find the subtle signals of existence around us, unlocking new keys to creativity and understanding.

Alongside the release of awai, plans for a photo exhibition are underway. The exhibition will start on June 11, 2026, at NONLECTURE books/arts in Shibuya, Tokyo, offering audiences a chance to engage visually with the themes explored in the book. A preview event for media representatives will occur the day before, featuring special happenings in correlation with the book's launch. Notably, lucky customers who purchase the book will have the opportunity to attend a book signing event led by Motoki on June 17, 2026.

With many years in the entertainment industry, Masahiro Motoki has become a symbolic figure of both success and introspection. Known for roles in impactful films like Departures, which won him the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and his current work in Kuro Rōjō, the intricate layers of his artistic expression continue to unfold. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to exploring the essence of humanity and the intricacies of life, making his new photo book an exciting addition to his oeuvre.

The book features photography by Kazuhiro Nakamura and text by Masahiro Motoki, available for purchase at a recommended retail price of 6,050 yen. With its blend of visual artistry and personal insight, awai promises to be an essential contribution to the world of contemporary art books, highlighting the vitality of friendship, reflection, and the enduring human experience.

For those curious about the upcoming events or to learn more about the book and related merchandise, visit the publisher's official site or the exhibition space. As Motoki and Nakamura share their art with the world, they invite us all to embark on a reflective journey through their lens.