Geiko & Maiko Of Kyoto
This is an intimate, intricately researched observation of Geiko and Maiko culture in Kyoto. The elegance and sophistication of these increasingly rare traditional Japanese artists is reflected in the meticulous design, respectful prose and gorgeous photographs. 'Geiko and Maiko of Kyoto' was awarded the Photography Book of the Year (2015) by the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers.
The fascinating modern cultural context and lifestyle of these artists is explained in Robert van Koesveld's introductory essay. Then we meet eleven of these women and he shares their stories of what attracted them to this career. His elegant and perceptive images reveal their transformation from young enthusiasts to mature artists. These exquisitely costumed women offer the refined artistry of traditional dance, music, hospitality and conversation to their guests and the wider community. Maintaining such costly cultural treasures in a modern society can be a challenge, especially when the years of training are so arduous before the apprentice, a maiko, can graduate into a geiko (known as geisha elsewhere in Japan), the mature graceful artist that so enchants Japanese and foreigners alike.
During many visits to Kyoto, Robert has been able to gain the trust of some of these young women and the strong women who manage their training and performances. He also introduces us to the surrounding community of highly skilled teachers, managers and traditional artisans who create the environment to display such delights as the extraordinary hand-painted silk kimono, the elaborate hair arrangements and the graceful traditional dances. His respectful images and stories reflect the deep appreciation that the Kyoto people have for maiko and geiko. His book will share this appreciation beyond this ancient city.
(ISBN: 978-0-9944501-0-4)
This is an intimate, intricately researched observation of Geiko and Maiko culture in Kyoto. The elegance and sophistication of these increasingly rare traditional Japanese artists is reflected in the meticulous design, respectful prose and gorgeous photographs. 'Geiko and Maiko of Kyoto' was awarded the Photography Book of the Year (2015) by the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers.
The fascinating modern cultural context and lifestyle of these artists is explained in Robert van Koesveld's introductory essay. Then we meet eleven of these women and he shares their stories of what attracted them to this career. His elegant and perceptive images reveal their transformation from young enthusiasts to mature artists. These exquisitely costumed women offer the refined artistry of traditional dance, music, hospitality and conversation to their guests and the wider community. Maintaining such costly cultural treasures in a modern society can be a challenge, especially when the years of training are so arduous before the apprentice, a maiko, can graduate into a geiko (known as geisha elsewhere in Japan), the mature graceful artist that so enchants Japanese and foreigners alike.
During many visits to Kyoto, Robert has been able to gain the trust of some of these young women and the strong women who manage their training and performances. He also introduces us to the surrounding community of highly skilled teachers, managers and traditional artisans who create the environment to display such delights as the extraordinary hand-painted silk kimono, the elaborate hair arrangements and the graceful traditional dances. His respectful images and stories reflect the deep appreciation that the Kyoto people have for maiko and geiko. His book will share this appreciation beyond this ancient city.
(ISBN: 978-0-9944501-0-4)