Astushi Okada

I have only a few more hours in Japan and I find myself struck with an acute feeling of melancholy. Time passes quickly and there is so much more I’d like to do. I try to avoid the inevitable (leaving Japan) in every possible way but I know that's impossible. I recently picked up a book called I Am by Atsushi Okada. I am struck by the simplicity of his photographs and how it represents the topic of self-mutilation. I have included two photos that I pieced together and his artist statement. His statement seems heartfelt and sincere which is unlike a lot I have recently which use obtuse art-speak as a justification for their artwork. It seems a bit tired at this point. Alas! I’m off to Hawaii.