Initially developed and conceptualized during his undergraduate studies at the Osaka University of the Arts in Japan, Sohei Nishino's project, Diorama Maps, provides an uncanny reimagining of various twenty-first century cities. Produced in 2016, Diorama Map: San Francisco is a stunning example of Nishino's novel approach. While wandering around a city of prominence, Nishino produces a plethora of images, frequently composed from a high-angle perspective. These pictures capture quintessential landmarks, atmospheric elements, and at times, residents on the street. After the image-making phase, he meticulously constructs massive collages using bits and pieces from over 4,000 prints. Once satisfied with his handiwork and layout, Nishino photographs the final collage – resulting in a kaleidoscopic image, sometimes up to seven feet wide. The impressive scale invites the viewer to inspect various details of the scene closely. Importantly, Nishino's maps aren't necessarily geographically accurate, a purposeful choice as the artist desires to convey the sensory and experiential aspects of a place:
“... a trace of the way in which I walked through it, an embodiment of my awareness, a microcosm of the life and energy that comprises the city.”
—Sohei Nishino