Obituary of Yasuomi Hashimura
November 12, 2024
Yasuomi Hashimura 橋村奉臣 (1945–2024)
Yasuomi Hashimura, known as Hashi, was a visionary Japanese-American photographer whose groundbreaking liquid photography techniques transformed the field. Born in 1945 in post-war Osaka, Japan, Hashi’s early years were defined by hardship, but his innate creativity and determination propelled him toward a life of artistic excellence. In 1968, he emigrated to the United States, determined to make his mark in a country where he would soon establish a lasting legacy.
After arriving in New York, Hashi faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture, language, and society, but his perseverance paid off with the founding of Hashi Studio in 1974. His work quickly gained attention for its bold, experimental style, blending technical innovation with an artistic sensibility.
Hashi’s contributions to advertising photography were revolutionary. His work for major brands like Coca Cola, Absolut, Panasonic and many more, brought a surreal quality to commercial imagery, elevating it into an art form. Known for his expert use of lighting, unconventional angles, and striking visual effects, Hashi created advertising campaigns that captivated audiences and set new industry standards.
In 1985, his photograph “Rainbow in Space” was selected by the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) as a limited-edition art print for the commemorative stamp honoring the United Nations University. This marked the first time a photograph was chosen for this prestigious series, which had previously featured works by artists like Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol.
Hashi often explored themes of memory, identity, and transformation. Whether in fine art, still life, or advertising photography, Hashi always sought to be original and believed an unyielding work ethic and fortitude were the instruments to a successful career. Inspired by the Thomas Edison quote “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” Hashi’s work was featured in many solo and group exhibitions around the world and he published many books. His passing marks the conclusion of an extraordinary life, but his images remain timeless, urging us to see the beauty in fleeting moments and the stories that can be told in a single frame.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Hashi was a trusted source of advice and guidance for many Japanese newcomers to New York, generously sharing his wisdom and experience to help them navigate their new lives.
Hashi is survived by his children, Kenneth Taro and Ann Akari; his daughter-in-law, Mercedes; his son-in-law, Goldi; and his cherished granddaughter, Indigo Rei. He also leaves behind his sister, Kazuko; his brother, Takashi; and a devoted circle of family, friends, and collaborators. His beloved wife, Ryoko, predeceased him in April 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral Services
Visitation
November 24, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Greenwich Village Funeral Home
199 Bleecker Street
New York, NY 10012
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As a childhood friend of Akari and Taro, Hashi’s house was like a second home to me growing up. I’m extremely saddened to learn of his passing. I remember the smell of the incense he lit, the ding of the bell and the way he brought his hands and head together in prayer standing in front of a shrine on the fourth floor. Hashi was always kind and welcoming to me with his immense smile whenever I was at his house. He counseled me when my parents died and always encouraged perseverance. Much love to Akari and Taro.
Posted by: sam yugler - Portland, Oregon - Friend November 16, 2024
Akari, Sending strength and much love to you and your family. Wendy
Posted by: Gwendolyn Sinclair - Norfolk, VA - Friend November 16, 2024
I will greatly miss Hashi. He was an incredibly inspiring person. I think about the times we spent laughing, talking about art and life. Sending my condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Posted by: Shane Harrington - Bronx, New York - Friend November 16, 2024
I worked with Yasuomi Hashimura, "Hashi" a good five years as I felt he was the best of the best. About a month after I started working at his studio, he asked if I knew why he hired me, I said, " because of my book?", Hashi said "no, because on your first day you were here waiting for me, before I arrived" Since then I have always valued my time with Hashi and have kept in touch. We even spoke about him visiting North Carolina. Honestly, I have thought about him every day since I left his studio, and if there is a photography problem I have, I always think, What would Hashi do? Taro and Akari were young children when I worked at Hashi Studio in the 90's, and were often at the studio. I always thought that was really neat, and when I had an art gallery I made sure my children were there whenever they wanted to be. My heart goes out to Taro, Akari and the rest of his family, he was greatly loved and will be missed everyday. He made me a better photographer and a better person.
Posted by: John Gessner - Pinehurst, NC - Coworker November 16, 2024
Hello, Sorry for your loss. I worked for your father as a studio manager in NYC in 1978 and 1979. He was a force and influenced my own work throughout my life, I knew your mother as well. Best to you and your family. Stuart Heir https://www.instagram.com/stuartheir/ https://www.singulart.com/en/artist/stuart-heir-62804?ref=ts
Posted by: Stuart Heir - Harrington Park, New Jersey - Friend November 17, 2024
We offer our sincere condolences to Yasumi Hashimura's family and loved ones at this time of his passing. We have fond memories of the times we shared together. Hashi-san was always very supportive and kind to us when Azusa arrived from Japan almost 30 years ago, and continuing several years later, at the birth of our son. Azusa enjoyed a happy reunion with him earlier this year when Hashi-san visited Atami, Japan. Our continued prayer is that Hashi-san is joyfully enveloped in God’s great love and light, together with his beloved Ryoko-san, united with all the Hashimura family ancestors.
Posted by: Larry and Azusa Hoshi Ammar - Odawara, Japan, - Friend November 21, 2024
I’m deeply sorry for the loss of Hashi San. He used to come to my Resturant Saburi with beautiful wife Ryoko San and nice company. He was so cheerful and kind. I will never forget his great smile. I went back to Japan in 2016 to take care of my mother and came back last year. I was so happy to see him again in this October. He told me that he missed eating Mobo-Tofu,which is our popular dish. We promised to let him know our Sai Chef arrive in NY. God bless you and rest in peace.
Posted by: Mika Saburi - Bayside, New York - Neighbor November 22, 2024
