David Sylvian’s Perspectives – Polaroids 82–84 (Japanese edition) is a rare and fascinating artifact that offers a deeply personal glimpse into his creative evolution beyond music. Published in 1984, this Japanese edition is especially coveted—only 500 copies were printed.

The book is a collection of Sylvian’s Polaroid collages created between 1982 and 1984, featuring portraits and abstract compositions. Subjects include close collaborators like Steve Jansen, Holger Czukay and Angus McBean. What sets the Japanese edition apart from the UK release is its inclusion of additional Polaroid compilations and a series of letters from Sylvian to Ryuichi Sakamoto, offering insight into the book’s conception and their artistic dialogue.

The physical design is also striking—it mimics an old Buddhist prayer book, with no spine and a continuous scroll-like structure folded between hard covers. This format reflects Sylvian’s interest in Eastern aesthetics and philosophy, which were becoming increasingly central to his worldview at the time.

In the introduction, Sylvian describes how he turned to visual art during a break from songwriting in 1982. He speaks of discovering a new emotional depth in visual media, citing a transformative experience at a Frank Auerbach exhibition in London. This awakening led him to explore photography as a form of emotional expression, culminating in the Polaroid montages that make up the book.

It’s not just a photo book—it’s a document of artistic rebirth.

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Price: Sold. Had a couple over the years but with only 500 made + samples it is a rare item. The sheer expense of it makes me shy away and, I think, the expense is why it's not seen that often outside of Japan. But it is an unbelievably beautiful and unique book. Probaly the most beautiful 'book' (for it is so much more than that) I've seen.

Used: £500.00 - Sold

£500.00 - Sold

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