Eugene Smith - 'Tomoko in Her Bath'

Question 1

Opening Sentence

Answer 1

Eugene Smith, a profound and compassionate photo essayist,
produced the photographic series ‘Minamata’ in 1972, with the hope of bringing to light the horrific consequences of industrial pollution in Japan.

Question 2

Depiction of SM

Answer 2

Capturing the shocking prevalence of of mercury poisoning and sickness in Minamata, Smith’s most impressionable image, depicts a Japanese Mother cradling her severely deformed daughter (Tomoko) in a traditional Japanese bathroom.

Question 3

Aesthetic Qualities

Answer 3

Through the use of evocative lighting, Smith deliberately draws the viewer’s attention to Tomoko’s long , disturbingly thin legs, claw like hands, and frail appearance, further highlighting the traumatic effects of toxic waste poisoning. The dramatic vignette framing the subject not only emphasises the harsh tonal contrast within the shriveled forms, but also evokes a sense of disparity within the composition, encapsulating the futility of being placed in a situation with no real hope for change.

Question 4

Aesthetic qualities 2

Answer 4

Additionally, Smith employs the use of scale, allowing the viewer to clearly focus on the small, yet impactful details of the subject matter, from Tomoko’s vacant stare, to her mother’s tender embrace.

Question 5

Style

Answer 5

On a stylistic note, the image is almost poetic in its depiction. Regardless of her deformity, Tomoko’s mother has nothing but love for her, contrasting to Tomoko’s blank stare into space, potentially alluding to the desire for her to ascend to heaven to alleviate her agony and suffering. The raw, unfiltered style of the photo almost represents a physical manifestation of memory, elucidating that even in times of despondency and heartache, the people of Minamata must persevere in a world of emotional turmoil.