refrain Naoyuki Obayashi

This book is a collection of photos taken by the Japanese photographer Naoyuki Obayashi at the coasts of his home prefecture, Yamaguchi, during his return for treatment.
Capturing the moments during brief sunsets, he stood between fading light and encroaching darkness with his camera.
Obayashi noted that these places perfectly reflected his own heart at the time.
Throughout his extended treatment, he repeatedly visited various coastlines, including those along the Japan Sea in the north and the Seto Inland Sea in the south, where his family home is located, all while reflecting on his emotions.
His turbulent emotions resulted in photos conveying an indescribable air of anxiety and conflict.
Unlike his previous work, Ohika, where he projected himself onto the subject, this collection reflects not only changes in his physical and emotional state but also represents a deeper dialogue with himself.
Here, the life and death captured in these photos coexist despite their apparent contradiction.
Nature and humanity have continuously intertwined life and death, connecting to the present regardless of time.
Each image captures Obayashi's confrontation with his doubts and uncertainties, depicting a sense of overwhelming strength (though "strength" may not be the perfect term).
The final result is a photo collection representing Obayashi's unique confrontation with his spirit and the meaning of life—a piece that only the Naoyuki Obayashi of today could create.