Elongated Shadows

Elongated Shadows

HYPERALLERGIC | e-flux | HYPERALLERGIC

Elongated Shadows is a multimedia exhibition examining the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, from the viewpoint of both the Americans who were behind the research and detonation of the bombs, and the Japanese civilians who were victimized in the infamous attacks.

Kei Ito is a third-generation hibakusha, a survivor of the atomic bombings. Through his work, he reflects upon his grandfather's experience in an effort to better understand his own inherited trauma and the unknown impact of radiation across generations. Japanese artist Migiwa Orimo's uncle barely escaped the bombing of Nagasaki. Her work examines our collective memories and their origins. A third Japanese artist, Azumi O E, makes a dichotomous probe into an individualistic perspective of a world calamity through Butoh—a distinctly Japanese artform.

Three additional artists have ties to the American side of the conflict. Suzanne Hodes has an intimate connection to the bombings as the wife one of the lead scientists who contributed to the creation of the bomb with the Manhattan Project. Andrew Paul Keiper and Ari Beser are both separated from the conflict by a generation. Keiper's grandfather was an engineer for the Manhattan Project and Beser's grandfather was the only person to fly on both the flights that dropped atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Planned for the 75th year anniversary of the bombings, the exhibition revisits one of the biggest catastrophes of human history in an effort to encourage a more measured response to current nuclear tensions. Elongated Shadows reveals the true impact of nuclear bombs. Gathering artists forever connected by tragedy, it prompts reflection on themes of forgiveness, identity, and heritage.

*Elongated Shadows was originally set to open at 291 Church St., New York, NY, however due to Covid-19, it will now be presented online. For the latest information on the exhibition, related events, or to inquire about a visit to the exhibition space, please contact elizabeth.larison@apexart.org.

See the exhibit here.