'Ainu, Portrait of the Wind' Review

Situated at the back of London’s National Geographic Store, the Ainu exhibition, whilst small in size, conveys a whole new world, one which many people aren’t accustomed to. The range of photos, all of which are captured by Makiko Ui during her time spent in the Ainu community, show their way of living, their community and secluded living space.

A man wearing traditional Ainu clothes, a woman looking deeply into a handmade ornament, and a picture of the delicately designed huts in the midst of winter are but a few of the pictures which are on display. Carefully chosen and conscientiously described, just over a dozen of Ui’s picture have been put up for viewing at the Store.

It has often been widely agreed that the Ainu people, whilst happy within their own community and company, have been discriminated against by the Japanese. This has been an occurring theme for many centuries; however, more recent attempts are being made by both parties in an attempt to integrate the Ainu with the rest of Japan. For example, the Ainu people would only speak their conventional languages in the past, but now they are choosing only to learn Japanese. It was predominantly in the Meiji period (1868-1912) that the shift, not only in language, but in housing, clothing and food started to take place.

These captivating images and intriguing people are something not be missed. The exposition runs until the 27th August where a compilation of books, postcards and prints of Makiko Ui’s photographs are available for purchase at the Knightsbridge Store.

Ainu Portrait of the Wind: Exhibition details

By Rishi Patel