Chiba City is a single organism where each individual plays a different role, contributing to a sense of harmony like a musical instrument does in a symphony. In Japan, the concept of harmony is more prominent than other countries in terms of how a city operates and people’s behavior.

Secret people attempts to shed light on the human faces behind the sophisticated mechanisms of urban functions. It focuses on the normally hidden workers and residents whose lives undergird the city, making their presence visible.

On his previous visits to Japan, artist and filmmaker Alexey Krupnik traveled to various cities and filmed everyday landscapes. But those efforts were limited to temporary forms of observation. For this project, he aims to go deeper into the landscape, achieving both a sense of immersion and documentation.

By capturing the lives of denizens, moment by moment, Krupnik wants to ask who “makes” a city. Every day, we pass by many people, yet almost always ignore them. This work shines a light on these overlooked others.

Photography is the act of stopping to discover the beauty hidden in the ordinary. This series is incredibly simple. It comprises only the self, a camera, and a location in the city.

The exhibition features the photographs that Krupnik shot and compiled in the style of street documentation, capturing the daily lives of people working in Chiba City. Rather than presenting them as tourist photographs or chance snapshots, Krupnik has carefully constructed the images into a continuous series.

Event Overview

• Dates: September 19（Fri）–November 24（Mon）, 2025
• Opening times: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• Closed Wednesdays
• Venue: Sogo Chiba (in front of main entrance)（1000 Shinmachi, Chuo-ku, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture 260-8557）
  ※While Google Maps shows the interior of Sogo Chiba Store, the event is held outside the building in front of the main entrance (on the Keisei Chiba Station ticket gate side).
  ［Parking available (fee applies) / EV charging available］
• Free admission
• Sponsor: Chiba Sen City Inc.

Heatstroke Prevention Measures

Please take measures to prevent heatstroke by staying hydrated and wearing a hat, etc., according to the environment. If you feel unwell, please notify a nearby staff member.

Photography and Video Recording

Photography and video recording will be conducted on the day for promotional and record-keeping purposes. Media outlets may also conduct interviews and filming. Photographs and videos taken may be published on the Chiba International Art Festival website, social media, brochures, and other promotional materials, as well as on television, magazines, and other media. We kindly ask for your understanding in advance.