Anton Kusters is a Belgian documentary and fine art photographer. He is one of the only people who has ever gained access to the criminal underworld of Japan. In his book ‘Yakuza’ the reality of this highly notorious gang is exposed in a moody, shadow-filled noir aesthetic. We see them at meetings, strip clubs, bathhouses, and performing strange rituals. All the members are dressed in suit and ties, usually black, which further solidifies the perception of this group as classic mobsters. Most fascinating is their relationship to tradition and ritual, the tattoos, which mark the members for life, are code for their rank among peers.
D. at PW
PAGAN WOOD 