Fascinated by the concept of intimacy in Japan, Belgian photographer Zaza Bertrand created this documentary photo series at locations known as love hotels. In these kitschy and secluded safe havens that epitomise the pragmatic separation of sex and love in Japan, erotic desires are expressed freely yet anonymously. As an outsider, Bertrand attempts to capture these innate dichotomies and paradoxes. Reflecting the ambiguous perceptions about intimacy experienced in Japanese culture, the candid images capture a sense of alienation and poignancy in places where young people can escape to regain a level of self-sufficiency and empowerment, albeit only temporally. Published by Art Paper Editions (Brussels).

96 pages, 23 x 30 cm, paperback, Art Paper Editions (Brussels).