Tokyo-based photographer Irem Cakir was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. She has been passionate about photography for more than sixteen years.
Irem studied philosophy and completed her degree with an essay on the philosophy of photography. This led her to develop her practice as a self-taught photographer, outside of any academic photography school. She sees this independence as a strength, allowing her to pursue photography, which she loves, without limits.
Her work explores dualities, finding balance and understanding in the spaces between: inside and outside, solitude and connection, nature, and urban life. Through her photographic eyes, she seeks elements of nature within cityscapes while simultaneously portraying a sense of alienation and detachment from reality. This perspective shapes her ongoing project, in which she navigates these contrasts, reflecting on the tension and harmony within them.
Exhibitions & Publications:
Nov 2018: Participated in a photozine project by FAİL Books & Fabrika Zine, showcased at Poşe, Istanbul.
Dec 2018: Street exhibition in Buenos Aires, curated by Fiona Vilmer.
Nov 2019: Solo exhibition "Jisaboke" in Tokyo.
Nov 2020: Group exhibition at ZA-KOENJI Public Theatre, Tokyo.
Sep 2021: Contributed to "Monomania Love," a photography book with 10 other Tokyo-based photographers.