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About this series
"Faces of Amata Nakorn, the 'Eternal City'" by Kou Kimura is a compelling photo book that offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the unique tapestry of lives woven within this modern industrial estate and the adjacent "new town" in Thailand. Kimura's keen eye for detail and his ability to capture the essence of the people and their private spaces in this evolving urban landscape is truly commendable.
One of the striking aspects of Kimura's work is his dedication to understanding the multifaceted nature of Amata Nakorn, the so called the 'Eternal City'. The photo book begins with an insightful introduction that sets the stage, highlighting the transformation of this once rural area into a bustling hub for over 700 companies. The unofficial yet fitting nickname, the 'Eternal City,' is a testament to the ever-changing dynamics of the place.
The photographer's approach is a fusion of objectivity and intimacy, and this shines through in his images. In "Faces of Amata Nakorn," Kimura brings the people who call this place home to the forefront. Through his lens, we meet the inhabitants in their private rooms, allowing us to glimpse their hopes, dreams, and the daily realities they face.
The book beautifully captures the diversity of individuals who have been drawn to Amata Nakorn for various reasons. Some arrive in search of employment, while others have deeper connections to the town as the "first generation" who grew up there. Kimura's portraits and their accompanying personal spaces tell stories of aspiration, nostalgia, and the pursuit of a better life.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of "Faces of Amata Nakorn" is how it connects the personal with the collective. The faces and personal spaces of the people portrayed in the book not only reveal their individual nature but also serve as a mirror reflecting the broader context of modern Thailand. Kimura's work effectively bridges the gap between the personal and the societal, inviting us to ponder the intricate relationship between people and their environment.
In terms of photography, Kimura's documentary style is both raw and intimate, capturing the essence of his subjects without embellishment. The images feel authentic, allowing the viewer to connect emotionally with the people of Amata Nakorn. The book's layout and design are straightforward and unpretentious, keeping the focus squarely on the photographs and the narratives they convey.
Artist Bio
Kou Kimura is a Japanese freelance photographer and a member of gallery 176 in Osaka. His most recent work "Faces of Amata Nakorn" is a captivating photo book that offers a profound exploration of a rapidly evolving urban landscape and the lives it encompasses. Kou Kimura's ability to convey the essence of this place and its people through his lens is both evocative and enlightening. This book is a testament to the power of photography as a means of storytelling and understanding the human experience within a changing world.
Photographer: Kou Kimura
Facebook: @kou.kimura.12
Instagram: @kimurakouphoto
Photos copyright Kou Kimura
DRAWLIGHTS | 1/1 – one post/one photographer, weekly. Off-chain and on-chain. By Peter Nitsch, lens-based artist, a member of NFT Now 🌐 and lifetime Member of the Royal Photographic Society of Thailand.