Lokesh Tuli’s Photography exhibition “Visions of Japan: Cultural Mosaic” at the Japan Foundation in New Delhi, offered an intimate journey into Japan’s soul, capturing its culture and beauty in every frame, writes SAKSHI PRIYA
Photography has a unique power - it can transport individuals to places they might never visit in person. It captures moments that might otherwise go unseen, offering glimpses into worlds that, though distant, feel deeply familiar. Lokesh Tuli, a talented photographer with a keen eye for detail, has created such an experience with his latest exhibition, “Visions of Japan: Cultural Mosaic,”at the Japan Foundation in New Delhi. This exhibition, a highlight of Japan Month celebrations, is not just a collection of photographs but a doorway into the heart of Japan’s cultural and artistic soul.
Walking through Tuli’s exhibition feels like stepping into a different world, one shaped by subtlety, grace and an eye for the beauty in the everyday. What stands out most about this collection is not only its technical brilliance but its emotional depth. Tuli’s work goes beyond photography, each image represents a conversation between the viewer and Japan’s spirit, a dialogue that feels both personal and profoundly universal. His monochrome photographs, with their play of light and shadow, evoke a quiet elegance that is rare in today’s fast-paced, often over-saturated visual culture.
There is a profound sense of patience in Tuli’s work, showcasing his dedication to waiting for the perfect moment that reveals a deep respect and understanding of his subject. His work is about more than just capturing beautiful scenes, it’s about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. In “Moments,” he captures a quiet exchange between two people that feels deeply personal yet universal. “Old Timer” celebrates the grace and dignity of aging, while “Walking the Lane” invites viewers to stroll down a peaceful Japanese street. “The Silent Ride” transports viewers to a moment of stillness, and “Smoke and Steel” uses monochrome to turn a simple plume of smoke into something almost divine. One of the highlights of the exhibition is “Whisper,” a rare coloured photograph that breaks the monochrome theme, adding a burst of vibrancy and offering a fresh perspective. Each piece is more than just a photograph, it’s a story waiting to be told, a moment captured in time that invites viewers to step inside and feel what it’s like to be there.
Visions of Japan: Cultural Mosaic serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art. It demonstrates that photography, at its best, is not just about capturing a scene but about revealing its essence. Tuli’s work invites viewers to look beyond the surface and find beauty in places they might otherwise overlook. It’s a call to slow down, appreciate the small details and find meaning in moments that often pass unnoticed. In a world that frequently favours the bold and the obvious, Tuli’s exhibition offers a quiet, gentle reminder of the power of subtlety and grace. It’s a journey worth taking, not only for lovers of photography but for anyone who seeks to see the world a little differently.
The exhibition features 40 stunning black-and-white photographs, each a limited-edition piece that will never be reproduced. Every image is carefully composed, capturing the spirit of Japan in a way that feels both timeless and immediate. Through his lens, Tuli explores the beauty of Japan’s streets, the mystery of its public spaces and the vibrancy of everyday life. His work is inspired by wabi-sabi, a Japanese concept that finds beauty in imperfection and the fleeting moments of life. Walking through the exhibition feels like stepping into Japan itself. Each photograph tells its own story- stories that are intimate yet speak to something larger about the human experience.
What makes this exhibition truly special is the meticulous attention to detail that extends beyond the photographs themselves. Every aspect of the experience has been thoughtfully curated to create a deeper connection to Japanese culture. The collaboration with Panasonic Lumix reflects the precision and quality behind each image, while 100-150 beautifully produced catalogues are available for visitors to take home, allowing them to revisit the art long after they’ve left the gallery. To further immerse visitors, the exhibition includes a sake-tasting event for select guests, adding a sensory element to the visual journey. There’s also a cultural quiz designed to engage visitors and deepen their understanding of Japan’s rich traditions and modern spirit.
“Visions of Japan: Cultural Mosaic” is more than just a photo exhibit; it’s an invitation to pause and truly appreciate the world. It uncovers beauty in the most unexpected places, from quiet exchanges between people to the interplay of shadows on a wall. Tuli’s work portrays Japan in a deeply personal yet universally accessible way, creating connections across cultures and encouraging thoughtful reflection. The exhibition allows visitors to immerse themselves in a world where every detail and moment is rich with meaning, where light and shadow tell their own stories and where even the smallest instances resonate deeply. As viewers leave, they are likely to feel a profound connection to Japan’s essence, finding beauty not only in distant scenes but in their everyday lives. “Visions of Japan: Cultural Mosaic” is more than an art display, it’s a moving journey into the heart of a culture and a reminder of the powerful way photography can bring us all closer together.
Photos: Pankaj Kumar
