This series deals with urban legends/rumors. I am particularly intrigued by the fact that a legend is an uncensored reflection of our desires, fears, expectations or curiosity. Like the anonymity of an Internet message board, that of urban legend reveals people's true thoughts about sensitive topics including sex, death, religion and politically incorrect matters. A legend tends to be altered every time a person tells it to another, as in the game of "pass along." A legend always allows a storyteller to put his or her feelings and opinions into it. Regardless of whether a story is based on a real event or is fiction, a tale grows into a legend that reflects our voices. I aim to depict and explore our fascination with these urban legends.
Yoshio Itagaki
Antoinette's Breasts (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 100cmx75cm, 40x30inchesLegend: Champagne glasses were modeled on Marie Antoinette's breasts.
Cloning Jesus (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 100cmx75cm, 40x30inchesLegend: A group known as 'The Second Coming Project' is seeking to clone Jesus from the DNA of holy relics.
Tampon Tea Bag (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 100cmx75cm, 40x30inchesLegend: Tea made from tampon is a nutritious supplement.
Santa Cross (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inchesLegend: A Japanese department store once created a Christmas display featuring Santa Claus nailed to a cross.
Black Statue of Liberty (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inchesLegend: The Statue of Liberty was intended as a monument to the abolition of slavery, and the original model was a black woman.
Skin Asphyxiation: 007 Goldfinger (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inches Legend: The actress who portrayed Jill Masterson in the James Bond film Goldfinger died from asphyxiation after being covered with gold paint.
Spermicide (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inchesLegend: Coca-Cola is an effective spermicide.
Alien Abduction (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inchesLegend: The real meaning of the "Pedestrian only" traffic sign is "Beware of aliens kidnapping children."
Woman with Slit Mouth (2005) C-print on Fuji-Flex paper, 75cmx100cm, 30x40inchesLegend: Her mouth was mistakenly slit during a cosmetic surgery. She scares kids showing her mouth off and slashes them with her sickle.
