Master - An Ainu Story - A photography exhibition by Adam Isfendiyar

Growing up in Japan has never been easy for the Ainu people. Since Japan took over Hokkaido in 1869, they have struggled to be seen as equals in their own land - only being officially recognised as the indigenous people of Japan in 2008.

Through a series of photos taken by Adam Isfendiyar, the exhibition will take the audience on a journey through the recent history of the Ainu people, incorporating stories shared by Kenji Matsuda - head of the Akan Ainu Preservation Society.

Over a two-year period, Adam lived with Matsuda san in the Ainu community of Akan - one of the 3 main Ainu settlements in Hokkaido. Matsuda-san was directly connected to the generations who saw some of the worst treatment of the Ainu people. His life story will offer an insight into the harsh realities of being Ainu in Hokkaido and will highlight some of the causes of the continuing legacy of shame within the Ainu community.