The Nakagin Capsule Tower Building, a pinnacle of Metabolism architecture, was completed in 1974. Kisho Kurokawa's visionary concept, a precursor to modern sustainability, envisioned a building that could adapt to societal changes by replacing only damaged or obsolete parts. This approach mirrored the organic evolution of a living organism over time, in contrast to the conventional practice of tearing down old structures and building new ones. Unfortunately, the Nakagin Capsule Tower succumbed to demolition in 2022 in the wave of the scrap-and-build trend.

Through the observation of Nakagin Capsule Tower, I am fascinated by the dynamic interplay between captured moments and the inexorable force of entropy. Photography serves as my medium to navigate the delicate balance between order and chaos. Each fragment frozen in time bears witness to the dichotomy of preservation and decay, acknowledging the inevitable transformations that unfold. The demise of the Nakagin Capsule Tower echoes the ephemeral nature of architectural marvels, prompting reflection on the impermanence inherent in all things.

Entropy, the inexorable tendency of systems towards disorder, takes on the role of a silent collaborator in my visual narrative. Through my lens I seek to capture the ephemeral beauty that materializes as structures crumble, colors fade and nature reasserts its dominance. The Nakagin Capsule Tower Building, immortalized in my photographs, stands as a testament to the fleeting essence of existence - a choreography that oscillates between creation and dissolution.

In my photographic explorations, I strive to capture and preserve not only the artistic appeal, but also the historical significance embedded within the photographic subject. Through the lens, I aim to immortalize the architectural details and structures of the building that are destined to be lost, thereby preserving the rich tapestry of history and cultural heritage woven into our built environment. This endeavor is a testament to my commitment to ensuring that future generations can both appreciate and understand the past.

The Nakagin Capsule Tower building, now a relic of the past, finds its eternal refuge within the confines of what I call the "mother's womb" - the darkroom. In this sacred space, the essence of the building is transformed into visual poetry, allowing its architectural grandeur and historical significance to stand the test of time. Through the alchemy of photography, the Nakagin Capsule Tower becomes more than a memory; it becomes a tangible legacy that invites contemplation and connection across generations.

Copyright © 2025 Hiromichi Matsudaira
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