As part of my lifelong artistic practice, I have self-published “Yuumei(Between this World and the Next)” as a large-format photobook in poster size.

This work is based on the photobook I developed during a workshop hosted by Magnum Photos last year, where I participated with the generous nomination of the Kiyosato Museum of Photographic Arts. The experience of creating the book under the guidance of photographer Rafal Milach and book designer Ania Nalecka-Milach was both inspiring and deeply educational.

The book begins quietly, without a cover—an intentional decision inspired by Rafal’s words: “You are delicate and sensitive, so let’s make a book without skin.” This idea became a central concept in the final design.

The pages are printed on thin, semi-translucent paper that allows images to softly bleed through, evoking a sense of flickering in the light. This texture symbolizes the core theme of Yuumei—the space in-between this world and the next, between reality and the surreal.

Ania also suggested an irregular thread-binding style: “Make it rhythmic, but leave intentional pauses.” The resulting binding—like an arrhythmic heartbeat—has become one of my favorite aspects of the book.

Although the book is printed in a large format typical for photographic works, it holds the tactile presence and quiet impact of an art book—neither just a print collection nor a conventional photobook.

* With heartfelt gratitude to Magnum Photos and the Kiyosato Museum of Photographic Arts.
* Unauthorized copying and reproduction are prohibited.