ePostcard #65
Koibito

Koibito, produced by Munky King, is the first toy by Los Angeles artist Yoskay Yamamoto. The character is essentially a self-portrait, meant primarily to express a sense of alienation. Koibito reflects the artist's feelings of being a fish out of water, caught between his native culture of Japan and adopted home of California.

Asked to photograph Koibito for Hi Fructose, I decided to take him underwater. My intention was to explore Yoskay's concepts of alienation and the connotations of the character's name. "Koibito" translates from Japanese as "sweetheart" or "boyfriend / girlfriend." And aside from being a homophone for a type of carp, the word "koi" means "to be in love."

Koibito Shoot

The shoot itself was a lot of fun, despite the cold water. I'm the very pale person seen above, wearing a weight belt and positioning the figure. Mika is there as well, enduring the cold to hold a reflector. Unseen, taking the behind the scenes photo, is the wonderful Zury from Munky King. She is the model later seen in the background of the shot. Thanks to everyone for their help, and an extra thanks to Dave Pressler and Lisa Henson for the use of their pool.

I'm off next next week on my annual drive to Memphis for the holidays. This year, I'll also be doing a very special shoot for a historical event in January. Be looking for a sneak peek in the new year.

I hope that you have a safe and happy holiday season!!

Cheers,
Brian

 

P.S. Check out Hi Fructose's blog for downloadable wallpaper of the Koibito shot!

 

 

  

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