Nobu Ueno

TOYOTA (November 2004 - May 2006)

Rules and Timeframe:

For 18 months, every photograph taken must include a Toyota automobile or reference to the Toyota Corporation. Only a single amateur hand-held camera may be used.

Artist Explanation:

"Toyota is the largest manufacturer in the world. It's products are highly mobile and sold in more markets than any other. Living in Japan, it is hard to not see a Toyota when you look out the window. It is a national symbol of pride. However, to some people Toyota represents bad design, corporate greed and the triumph of unregulated capitalism. Toyota can mean almost anything."

"Most photographers can be classified into two groups: Those who hunt for specific subject matter and those who ramble around and photograph the interesting scenes or subject matter that happens to pop up. I have always alternated between these two classifications. Luckily, the Toyota project allows me to do both. If I feel like looking for Toyotas, I can look almost anywhere. Moreover, if I'm walking around and come across an interesting scene, all I need to do is wait and a Toyota is bound to drive by. If I happen to be unlucky, I can simply pull the small die-cast metal Toyota model out of my pocket and place it in the scene - perhaps create a 'Where's Waldo' moment for the viewer. If I am too tired to go out, I can photograph Toyotas on the Internet. Moreover, if I look in the newspaper, I will likely see a photograph of Toyota in a flood or one destroyed by a suicide bomber. Toyotas are perfect subject matter if you live in a wealthy globalized nation."