The Photographers’ Gallery

This landmark exhibition rewrites the story of Japanese photography through the eyes of women. Japanese Women Photographers spotlights the work of 27 groundbreaking artists, from the 1950s to today, whose perspectives have shaped how Japan sees itself, and how it is seen by the world.

Spanning identity, pop culture, fashion and everyday life, the exhibition celebrates internationally renowned Japanese women photographers, alongside those who have long been overlooked. The result is a powerful rebalancing of a history too often told through a single, male-dominated lens.

From pioneering figures of the post-war era to today’s most daring and experimental voices, the exhibition takes over The Photographers’ Gallery this summer with more than 200 photographs, videos, installations and rare photobooks. Together, Japanese Women Photographers is a vivid, intimate and expansive portrait of Japan, revealing how women artists have challenged conventions, captured social change and redefined photography across generations.

Curated by Lesley A. Martin, Takeuchi Mariko and Pauline Vermare. This exhibition is in connection with the publication I’m So Happy You Are Here: Japanese Women Photographers 1950s to Now (Aperture, 2024).