Published by Hatje Cantz, 2023
SUMO by Tomasz Gudzowaty is a striking photographic exploration of the ancient Japanese sport of sumo wrestling. Known for his documentary-style black-and-white imagery, Gudzowaty captures not only the raw physicality of the wrestlers but also the ritual, discipline, and tradition embedded in the sport. The book goes beyond the spectacle of the dohyō (sumo ring), offering intimate glimpses into the lives of rikishi—sumo wrestlers—through training sessions, quiet moments, and behind-the-scenes rituals. Gudzowaty’s photographs emphasise form, motion, and emotion, presenting sumo as both athletic contest and cultural performance. His lens humanises the often-mythologised figures, revealing the tensions between modernity and centuries-old tradition. Accompanied by essays that contextualise the imagery, SUMO becomes more than a photo book—it’s a respectful, contemplative study of Japanese heritage and the personal stories woven into its national sport. The result is a visually compelling and culturally insightful work.
SUMO is available to purchase here.