The Maman spider sculpture of Roppongi Hills
The Maman spider stands beneath Roppongi Hills. This iconic artwork can cause viewers to marvel at or shudder at. Its towering legs and eggs fit the image of a sci-fi film creature. The sculptor, Louise Bourgeois, created an unforgettable stop for photographers. Dare you stand beneath it for the perfect shot? Here’s how to capture it, even if arachnids aren’t your thing.
Yep, that was me. The first time I saw the sculpture, it creeped me out because I dislike spiders. But as I’ve seen it many times, it doesn’t worry me. It has become a part of the background. I bet the people working at Roppongi Hills don’t even notice it.
When I look at the spider now, it has evolved into something different. Do you know the Martian spacecraft from the H. G. Wells book, War of the Worlds? That is what it is now. It’s one of those minus the deadly ray gun!
This fantastic Tokyo photo spot was put up in 2012-2013. From below, you can see twenty-six marble eggs in its belly. The legs are long and sinewy. Marble, bronze, and stainless steel were used in its construction. People often photograph it.
Another six of these Maman spider sculptures are around the world. Even if you fear eight-legged creatures, I doubt you’ll find them scary after seeing them a few times! Louise made them with a particular thought in mind.
She created them in honor of mothers. Spiders are like them. They nurture and protect the young. Plus, they weave and spin their homes.
Maman spider sculpture photo tip
Stand under it with a wide-angle lens and shoot up towards Roppongi Hills. With the legs spread out, the spider is almost monster-size. Play with the angles for something good.
Where is the sculpture?
The spider is under Roppongi Hills in Roppongi.
Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train station:
Roppongi on the Toei Oedo and Hibiya Metro Lines.
Exit C1 is near the spider.
Conclusion
These photos were my fourth attempt at photographing the Maman spider. A couple of shots are slightly soft. That might be a result of the time of day. I went there relatively early in the morning. Some day, I’ll try again. Come back to check those pictures out! Leave questions and comments below.
What gear did I use for these photos?
- Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lenses:
- Fujifilm XF10-24 mm F4 R OIS
- Fujifilm XF 16-55 mm F2.8 R LM WR
- Fujifilm XF 55-200 mm F3.5-4.8 R LM OIS
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
Do you like art? Check out these stories:
External websites about Louise Bourgeois
- The Art of Louise Bourgeois (Tate Modern)