Photographer Mad Paule, is an artist based in New Delhi, India. While his Photography is based on Intimate-erotica, his aesthetic is of his close relations with people which sometimes has a voyeuristic quality. His illustration/photo works are based on the concept of wabi-sabi, like beautiful a slow growth or deterioration. These illustrations are inspired by old Japanese woodcut illustrations and erotica. He and model Chie are today’s exclusive feature artists to watch on NAKID!
At one level Yokai simply translates to a Ghost or something supernatural. But just like Wabi-Sabi, the actual definition is still ambiguous. It is a mixture of strange, enchanting, dreadful and mysterious or even scary. It is a feeling. A lot of grey area yet strongly defined lines.
Yokai’s are also shapshifters which resonates a lot with current Japanese society symbolically. A lot of people are living a dual life with two extreme characteristics. A lot of pressure to perform certain societal mannerisms which compromises with your expressions. But some people are ok to live a life like that, as long as they are getting an outlet to express it. There are many layers to it. Tattoos are a big ‘NO, NO’ in Japan because of a long history of association with crime and the Yakuza. You are not allowed to show them in public. Display of tattoos is forbidden in places like Onsen (public baths). Even hotels have strict instructions for the same reason. At public baths or at your office, you are required to cover them with masking tape. But Mad was extremely lucky to meet Chie, who carries her tattoos as an expression of her confidence and bit of revolt. She carries them as Art and she wants to show them to the world. Taking a step forward, to taking it to the mainstream from the underground.
If you love this visual story then show them some love, this is just a glimpse of the amazing stuff they have created – head over to their Instagram below to check out more from this awesome artist and support their creativity and your daily inspiration by following them!
Check out more of Mad Paule and their work here: INSTAGRAM
