Motomachi Project was started in 2015, and is an annual photo exhibit that takes place in August every year, with the goal of introducing Motomachi’s history. A majority of the exhibited photos are borrowed from local residents or where gifted directly to the project.
For the elderly, it’s a trip down memory lane, while for younger individuals it’s a chance for them to learn about a side of Motomachi, and Hiroshima
This year’s exhibition showcases the daily lives of people in Motomachi, and the areas where they live. Special attention is given to the development and repair of the Motomachi apartment complex, in which guests can see photos lined out in chronological order. In the photos just after the development of the complex, lots of kids can be seen running about, painting a picture of a bustling, energetic town. On the other hand, in the photos of local events, the number of elderly people clearly stand out, resulting in a sense of urgency, and the city calling out for younger residents. It’s been over forty years since many of the apartments, office buildings, and institutions were initially built, and many of them are starting to show natural wear and tear. For this reason, various residential areas have received orders to reform over time.
With this exhibit, guests can walk in the same footsteps as the city over the years to see how it’s changed, culminating with the current landscape of Motomachi.
2021 marks the 50th anniversary of Motomachi elementary school in Hiroshima. Attendees to the exhibit can see the history of the elementary school, which was developed at the same time as the complex, from the lens of the generation that grew up with it, which will allow them to gain a deeper understanding of Motomachi. For this year’s exhibit, we’ve collected various photos featuring the elementary school to display. Our goal is for quests to enjoy comparing the photos of old and new, and to see how the buildings have changed over the last half century.
It’s our sincere hope that by seeing these photos of Motomachi over the years, that it motivates individuals to come together in their shared community and sparks conversation on how to further better the city.
Due to recent events, and the ongoing prevalence of the corona pandemic, it was decided that this year’s exhibition will be held mainly online and at Motomachi Art Window to prevent the spread of infection.
From here on, photos of Motomachi elementary school, along with the surrounding area, are being organized and will be exhibited at Motomachi Elementary School’s 50th anniversary ceremony, as well as at Motomachi Art Window, in November 2021.
A word of thanks: This year’s Motomachi Photo Show was made possible thanks to the efforts of many. We’d like to take a moment to express our gratitude to all involved.
