Ryoko Suzuki's work in Anikora Seifuko examines the effects and impact of Japanese anime culture on society. Anime illustrations and characters, like Sailor Moon, are highly sexualized and provocative and by superimposing her own face to each anime character, Ryoko examines the impact of this culture on herself. In turn, we are forced to question a cultures response as a whole to these characters, and specifically the impact on young girls.
Colourful, fun and sassy - Ryoko's tongue in cheek work is sexual and raises important questions surrounding sexual identity.
1. What subject matter do you primarily choose to photograph, and why are you drawn to this subject matter?
My focus is consistently set on "Human being". For me, the most important aspect is "being human".
2. What do you hope to communicate to an audience through your work?
Present-day life carries a lot of information and we continue to try to connect ourselves. But, somehow it is not the real world. I hope audiences can use some of my work as a tool, in order to look at our present lives more carefully.
3. What are the biggest challenges you face in your work?
Every new exhibition for example, appears as a new hurdle I have to take, its challenging, to travel to distant places, constantly communicating with new people on a sophisticated level.
4. What is it about the photographic medium that you love?
Because I can utilize photographic technique in a neutral manner.
5. What do you find to be the most rewarding aspect of your work?
To meet people in the art field, which basically does avoid borders or narrow standpoints, and which nourishes tolerance.
6. If you could choose three words to describe your work, what would they be?
human, female, mirror.
7. What part of your portfolio are you most proud of and why?
I actually am proud of each of my works; I am developing my experience by practicing all of my art.
Opening Reception, May 3, 2 PM - 5PM @ Corkin Gallery
Exhibit runs from May 1st - 31st
Corkin Gallery, 55 Mill St, Bldg 61
