Hibi Yuichi is an accomplished fine art photographer and filmmaker.

In 1987, Hibi came to New York to pursue a career in acting. While working as an actor, Hibi was influenced by photographer friends, and soon immersed himself in visual and photographic arts.

In 1994, Hibi met and shared his work with Dennis Hopper (actor/photographer/filmmaker). Hopper encouraged Hibi and said, “You’ve got a good eye. You should continue…”

From 1995 to 2015, Hibi's photography has appeared in gallery shows, and both private and permanent collections, Including the Philadelphia Museum of Art. His photography books include such works as “imprint” and “NECO”, both published by Nazraeli Press, one of the most prestigious publishers of fine art photography.

The New York Times described Hibi's work as projecting "a mental state akin to meditative ecstasy".

As a filmmaker, Hibi directed the documentary feature, “A Weekend with Mr. Frank” (1997), about world-renowned photographer Robert Frank, with producer/co-editor Ross Kauffman (2004 Best Documentary Oscar winner for "Born Into Brothels").

In 2014, Hibi directed his first feature film, "An Ornament of Faith". It tells the story of a splintered family that seeks redemption against insurmountable odds.

In 2016, Hibi directed the documentary feature, "KEN SAN", about legendary Japanese actor, KEN TAKAKURA (featuring Michael Douglas, Martin Scorsese, John Woo, and many others). It won the Best Documentary Award at the 40th Montreal
World Film Festival in 2016. The film also won for Best Documentary at the 26th Japan Movie Critics Award in 2017.

In 2019, Hibi wrote and directed "ERICA 38", featuring Japanese icon, Kirin Kiki (“Shoplifters”), who also produced. It premiered at the Beijing International Film Festival. The film was also presented at many International film festivals, including the São Paulo International Film Festival and Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival. Miyoko Asada won the “Special Jury Mention” for "Best Actress" at the London East Asia Film Festival.

"Road Kill", Hibi's forthcoming feature film project, was selected for the L'Atelier program in 2013 at the 66th Cannes Film Festival. The project was also selected for the Venice Production Bridge, and was invited to the 74th Venice International Film Festival 2017 (the R.K. project is in pre-production with the French producer, Julien Favre).

Hibi's ongoing project, “Method or Madness?” is a feature documentary that examines the influence and emergence of the American METHOD and its worldwide impact. Featured subjects include Eli Wallach, Austin Pendleton, Arthur Penn and others.

Hibi, a native of Japan, is based in Tokyo and New York.

(Source: yuichihibi.com) Edit Biography