Yasuhiro Ishimoto – Someday, Chicago

This insightful examination of Yasuhiro Ishimoto's work highlights his deep connections to Chicago and the impact of his photography on modern art.

This book explores the remarkable journey of US-born photographer Yasuhiro Ishimoto (1921–2012) and his profound connections to Chicago, a city that became his home for over a decade and a recurring backdrop throughout his life. Celebrated in Japan as one of the most influential photographers of the twentieth century, Ishimoto's work reflects a unique modernist vision shaped significantly by his experiences in Chicago. After arriving in 1945, following his internment during World War II, he began to cultivate a distinctive style that engaged with the artistic community at the Institute of Design, where he interacted with notable figures such as Laszlo Moholy-Nagy and Harry Callahan.

In Yasuhiro Ishimoto – Someday, Chicago, readers will discover how the artist's immersion in Chicago's diverse neighborhoods allowed him to document pivotal social changes that mirrored broader transformations across the United States. His photography serves as a powerful commentary on the evolving urban landscape and the human experiences within it. This catalog not only showcases Ishimoto's significant contributions to modern photography but also contextualizes his work within the rich tapestry of Chicago's cultural history.

Accompanying an exhibition at the DePaul Art Museum, this book features both black-and-white and full-color reproductions of Ishimoto's key works. In-depth essays by exhibition cocurators Jasmine Alinder and John Tain provide further insight into his artistic journey, making this a valuable resource for both photography enthusiasts and those interested in Chicago's artistic legacy.