Moments Between Stillness
Derech’s work captures the essence of a haiku, transforming the brevity and depth of its structure into a cinematic experience. Just as a haiku distills a moment into three lines and seventeen syllables, Derech’s films channel the beauty of the mundane into three panels and 17 second cuts.
His approach romanticizes everyday moments, whether it's the busy streets of Tokyo on a rainy night or the gentle flicker of a candle in a Kyoto temple. By slowing time and removing the bustling nature of modern life, Derech allows viewers to savor each detail, much like a haiku evokes powerful imagery through its simplicity. His work encourages a mindful appreciation of life's small, often overlooked moments, transforming them into profound visual experiences.
Introduction by Curator Vienna Kim & Maxwell Karlan
Ilan Derech is a multidisciplinary artist known for transforming the simplicity of everyday life into visual poetry. Inspired by the structure of haikus, his work distills moments into three-panel compositions, each lasting 17 seconds, mirroring the brevity and depth of the traditional Japanese form. Through this approach, Derech invites viewers to slow down and appreciate the subtle beauty of life’s small, often overlooked details—from the rainy streets of Tokyo to the serene glow of a Kyoto temple.
His art is rooted in travel and street photography, blending seamlessly into the environments he captures. By focusing on unposed, candid scenes, Derech creates meditative experiences that invite reflection and mindfulness. Each piece offers a space to pause and savor the quiet moments, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary through his lens. His work embodies a deep appreciation for the poetic essence of daily life, enriched by a timeless, contemplative aesthetic.