Lycée Champollion in Grenoble, France, will host an international study day focusing on the Japanese influences in photography and literature, with particular emphasis on the acclaimed work of British photographer Michael Kenna. The event, scheduled for November 14, 2025, from 9 AM to 5 PM, is being organized as part of Grenoble Photo Month with support from Grenoble Alpes University and the Japanese Cultural Center in Paris.
The workshop represents the first in a series of international educational programs designed to explore different themes and techniques related to the photography of Michael Kenna, born in 1953. Kenna is a British photographer whose work has gained international recognition and has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. This inaugural workshop specifically aims to highlight one of the most significant sources of inspiration for his artistic vision: his deep connection to Japan and its cultural traditions.
Michael Kenna's fascination with Japan began during his first visit to the country in 1987. Captivated by both the natural landscapes and Japanese philosophy, he embarked on extensive travels throughout the Japanese archipelago over a period spanning more than 30 years. His dedication to capturing the essence of Japan has resulted in numerous exhibitions and monographs specifically devoted to representing the country's unique beauty and cultural heritage.
Kenna's photographic approach to Japan is particularly noteworthy for its distinctive black-and-white aesthetic that masterfully plays with light and shadow. His compositions are reminiscent of traditional Japanese calligraphy, demonstrating how deeply the country's topography and artistic traditions have influenced his creative process. The photographer has shown particular interest in the island of Hokkaido, creating an entire series dedicated to this northern region of Japan.
Over the years, Kenna has captured what many consider to be the very essence of Japanese nature through his carefully composed works that reflect the pure beauty of the landscapes. His photographic journey has taken him from the northern island of Hokkaido to the main island of Honshu, where he has documented everything from dramatic rock formations to serene Buddha statues, as well as the pastoral beauty of the Japanese countryside.
Two of Kenna's most recent and significant bodies of work focusing on Japan include "Forms of Japan" (2022) and "Japan: A Love Story" (2024). These photographic series showcase the refined and elegant forms that characterize Japanese aesthetics, capturing both the natural and cultural elements that make Japan unique. The collections represent the culmination of decades of artistic exploration and cultural immersion.
The international workshop will provide participants with an opportunity to examine how Japanese arts and literature have influenced contemporary photography, using Kenna's work as a primary case study. The program promises to offer insights into the intersection of Eastern and Western artistic traditions and how cultural exchange can shape an artist's vision over time.
For those interested in attending or learning more about the workshop program, detailed information can be found at the Lycée Champollion website. The event will take place at Lycée Champollion, located at 1 cours Lafontaine, 38000 Grenoble, France, providing an academic setting for this exploration of cross-cultural artistic influence.
