Directed by Travis Klose
Screenings: 3/6/04 9:45pm and 3/9/04 7:15pm at Camera 3

Araki is a well known (some might call him notorious) photographer based in Japan. His work is hailed as visionary and as filthy, with approximately the same intensity. It’s easy to see why. Whether his subject is a flower, a person he met on the street, or a beautiful and half-naked woman, his photographs are full of emotion.
“Arakimentari” introduces Araki and his work to us, lets us hear from both his supporters and those who find his work unsettling. We get to see his photos, from shots of nature to pornography, and watch him work. His models tell us that he makes them feel comfortable and is a perfect gentleman, but he often comes across like a dirty old uncle.
This is a fascinating look at a man who has dedicated his life to his work (he has released over 350 books of his artwork) and wisely, director Klose lets us decide for ourselves what to think of Araki. Is he a genius, a monster, or maybe a bit of both?