- April 9, 2026
The Southeast Museum of Photography will host two live events this month, beginning with Timeless Traditions: Celebrating Japanese History and Culture with Satomi Hirano on Saturday, April 11, from 2-3:30 p.m. in the museum’s Madorsky Theater on the Daytona State College campus.
Photographer Robert Maxwell will follow with a reception and lecture on Monday, April 13, from 6-8 p.m.
Both events are free and open to the public. Tickets are not required but may be reserved to guarantee seating.
Hirano’s performance highlights Wakayagi-Ryu, a traditional form of Japanese dance that uses a fan, or sensu, as a central element. Known for its expressive, deliberate movements, the style conveys emotion and reflects elements of nature.
“The movements may seem delicate and slow, but they express emotions that are deep and complex — jealousy, sorrow, longing,” Hirano said. “Dancing in kimono teaches you gestures that stay with you forever. Over time, these movements become part of your body, your soul.”
The program also includes an immersive demonstration of kitsuke, the art of dressing in a kimono, where audiences will see how garments and accessories are layered to create a complete look. Hirano approaches kimono as a living art form, connecting tradition with contemporary identity.
The event is presented in conjunction with Visionary, the museum’s current exhibition featuring more than 100 images spanning the breadth of Robert Maxwell’s career. The exhibition traces his early work in Paris — capturing everyday life and family — to the refined fashion, beauty, and celebrity portraiture that define his later work.
Maxwell’s newest series focuses on Japanese women in traditional kimono. (Kimono translates to “thing to wear.”) Through the careful process of kitsuke, each subject becomes a reflection of discipline, artistry and cultural heritage. Rather than simply documenting the process, Maxwell captures moments that reveal each woman’s individuality and presence.
"Visionary" also includes work from Maxwell’s assignments for leading publications including W, Vanity Fair, Vogue, GQ, and T: The New York Times Style Magazine, featuring portraits of architects, designers, artists, athletes and entertainers. For Maxwell, portraiture is an exchange — one that often begins with a subject’s public-facing persona. His work pushes beyond that surface, favoring restraint over spectacle. The result is a body of portraits defined by subtlety, honesty and depth.
Though his work exists within an industry often focused on perfection, Maxwell is drawn to what makes people distinct.
“I love people’s faces. They show they’ve lived,” Maxwell said.
During his lecture, Maxwell will share the experiences that shaped his career, offering insight into his creative process and the development of images for some of the world’s most recognizable publications.
Light refreshments will be served and live music performed by Rachel Harness.
Visionary will be on display through April 28 at the Southeast Museum of Photography, a service of Daytona State College. The exhibition, accompanying films and programs are free and open to the public.
