Kyoto 2005-2007

‘This portfolio consists of images of each of the 88 Orin, devotion bells, at the 88 Omuro Ninna-ji Temples – small, hut-like constructions which constitute a pilgrimage on a forested hillside in North- West Kyoto. The serial, repetitious strategy adopted in making the photographs, is intended to lend the work the sensibility of a ‘visual mantra’. And indeed, pilgrims upon arrival at each site, strike the Orin and recite mantra before moving on to the next temple in strict sequence, to perform the same ritual. The intention here, as well as praying for those who have suffered loss due to bereavement, is to purify our ‘88 desires’ as a means of attaining enlightenment. 88 Places is one of several inter-related photographic projects I have undertaken in Japan with the overarching title, one taste: (n)ever-changing (2003 – 2007)’