Dashwood Books, a semi-underground and highly influential bookstore on Bond Street in the Bowery section of Manhattan, was founded in 2005 by David Strettell, a former cultural director of Magnum Photo. In 2018, he was entrusted with the book section of the Gucci Soho store in NY by creative director Alessandro Michele and has successfully curated nearly 2000 titles.
Japanese writer and photobook consultant, Miwa Susuda, joined David at Dashwood in 2006. She rose to become the manager, and founded the publication Session Press in 2011.
The bookstore is pursuing its own publishing project in addition to many out of print, high quality used and new books. They constantly host book signings and events and provide the latest information on the most interesting books produced in the international market online and on Instagram. They have trusted clientele from intensely invested photo book collectors to pure youth looking for the retrograde rebellious spirit and originality. Everything is online and self-selecting today, but their fans prefer to visit and talk with them in person to discover using their own visual perceptions. As if visiting the bookstore were one of the therapies of expressing and finding yourself.
Their unwavering heat and honesty throughout may actually be the most necessary in modern times.
Since Covid-19 hit, the two have been extremely busy, but fortunately, I got a reply about my questions for Miwa.
Let's hear her loving and tender responses about photographers, but also her stoic vision about photographs.
1, When I look up the IG pages @dashwood_books and @miwasusuda, I see many interesting hip young characters. What do you feel is happening from this bookstore?
M Especially with Covid-19 happening last spring, I consciously use my IG as a reminder that Dashwood is an important place for our community. I started taking pictures of our clients with their recent purchases in their hands, making sure to show their smile and their enjoyment at the store. Many people left NY for their homes in Europe and Asia and the media talked about how NY "was over.” Since they claimed that there is no center city like NY and then the center was no longer necessary, due to marketing being moved to the internet. I highly disagree with their negative view of NY or heavy reliance on a store’s online presence. I wanted to show the rest of the world that we, New Yorkers, are the most excitingly creative people in the world and we support, nurture, and glow together for our art community. Dashwood is an important place for people who love photography and art.
2, Do you have a mission for paper media to act as a person who introduces photographers, artists, and writers to the world?
M I believe photography doesn’t exist unless it's printed. The photo book functions as the final and essential outcome for the work of a photographer.
3, Are there any photographers you've become more fond of lately?
M This is probably due to my Japanese background but I've always had a sweet spot for documentary shots or snapshots. Specifically, I'm enjoying a new book by a Japanese photographer, Takashi Yatoo. His father was second generation from Korean and Japanese families and his book, Palam, is autobiographical. The authentic feeling of each shot is undeniable.
4, Do you have a specific photograph that you love very much?
M Any photography or anything which tries to break boundaries.
5, Are there any upcoming photographers who you have high expectations of?
M N/A, I am sorry but I feel a bit uncomfortable responding to this question since all upcoming photographers equally gain their potential in the future.
6, Are there any memories you can’t forget about in this bookstore?
M When Mao Ishikawa came to Dashwood Books for her signing, she made a wonderful speech in front of many people. She is not fluent in English and it might have been scary for her to speak in front of people she didn't know. Especially in a foreign country. I admire her determination and responsibility as a photographer.
7, What are the important points when you are making a photo book?
M Communication with a photographer, designer, and printer.
8, What do you respect about your boss/mentor, David?
M David’s unique vision always challenges new things for our community. Being unique and edgy is especially hard now due to quick exposure online but his originality always shines!
9, Do you have any daily routines in the morning or before going to bed at night?
M Yoga and meditation.
10, What do you define New York City?
M Tough and kind.
11, Any upcoming projects?
M Daido Moriyama book!
12, What is your obsession?
M I enjoy working with and for my community (It’s a good obsession).
December 2021
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