233 - Chloé Jafé

This episode explores the journey of photographer Chloé Jafé and her unique project documenting the women of the Yakuza in Japan. Against the backdrop of a challenging and often lonely experience learning Japanese and navigating a foreign culture, Chloé recounts her unconventional path, including working as a hostess to gain access to her subjects. More significantly, the interview delves into the complexities of the Yakuza's patriarchal structure, revealing the often unseen power and influence wielded by the women within this secretive world. For instance, Chloé shares a compelling anecdote about a Yakuza boss testing her resolve, highlighting the risks and dedication required for her work. The discussion also touches upon Chloé's artistic process, where she adds paint and ink to her photographs, creating a multi-layered narrative. Ultimately, Chloé's story underscores the power of perseverance and the importance of immersive storytelling in revealing hidden aspects of society, culminating in a trilogy of limited-edition handcrafted books and an upcoming film adaptation.