From the practice of Zen Buddhism I have learned that our existence is composed of interconnected relationships. This notion has inspired me to use photography to reveal and establish such dynamics and connections.

While in Japan, I attended graduate school where I gained Ph.D. degrees in Neuroscience. After moved US in 1992, I started using camera and capture the people and city of Chicago. I learned photography from photojournalist Damaso Reyes.

Professional long-term project started in 2009 with “Chicago Redline station”, later it was expanded to  “Cabrini-Green: Frances Cabrini Rowhouses” in 2010. These projects pervades to the present along with all the projects that have emerged from my continuing practice.

Photography is driven by vision and content. I find my subjects by following the currents and finding the social whirlpools of metropolitan Chicago.

I started using an off camera flash on streets in late 2011 to search different images which became my another series called “Lights in Chicago”. Through unique illuminations, I aim to capture social and cultural complexities within our society. In opening my own mind to new and often frightful vulnerabilities, I offer the viewer an opportunity for parallel understanding and connectivity.

Satoki K Nagata