Openings: Nobuyoshi Araki – “Araki: A Perspective” @ Prism

West Hollywood’s fledgling, ambitious, and architecturally magnificent Prism gallery opened its second exhibition this past weekend. Delivering on their promise to show internationally recognized artists, Prism hosted the controversial and legendary Japanese photographer Nobuyoshi Araki, with a selection of about 70 of his works. The Tokyo-based artist is one of Japan’s most accomplished, notable, and respected photographers. His photos explore topics including love and sex and features his wife, Yoko, in much of his work.

More after the jump…

The work included black and white prints, C-prints, and some photographs that were embellished with Sumi ink. It featured signature Araki scenes of bondage, full nudity, and also, vividly colorful flowers. Each photograph is personal to the artist and depicts his relationship with the subject. Needless to say, each image is beautifully shot, raw in more ways than one, and fascinating to view.

Even though it was uncharacteristically rainy in Hollywood, the young, fashionable, and hip crowd braved the weather and the opening was very well attended. Notable guests included Marisa Tomei, Avril Lavigne, Jeremy Piven, Adrien Brody, and Devon Aoki. Be sure to stop by Prism and catch the exhibition before it closes on May 9.