EBRU YILDIZ: King of All the Land: Mitski
“With Ebru, I can play. I can be my whole self and even try being what I didn’t think I was, and see how it feels. I can try to tell a story, to evoke emotion, and to search for meaning. I can still be 3D in a 2D image.”
The remarkable collaboration between Ebru Yıldız and Mitski that blends intuition, authenticity, and artistic synergy
King of All the Land is the second book by New York-based photographer Ebru Yıldız, showcasing a remarkable collaboration with the enigmatic musician Mitski. Widely known for her emotionally resonant lyrics and live performances, Mitski possesses a unique ability to convey complex emotions that align seamlessly with Yıldız’s intuitive approach to photography. This book delves into Yıldız’s distinct perspective, creative exploration, and dedication to reimagining the portrayal of women.
The photographs within this meticulously crafted volume capture three autumn days near Nashville, where Yıldız and Mitski followed their instincts, broke free from traditional expectations, and inhabited a space between the imaginary and the documentary. While the shoot began with specific parameters, it evolved into a fluid exchange, with the artists creating moments that evoked the spirit of musical improvisation. As a result, Mitski’s exceptional performative skills translate beautifully to the page, drawing inspiration from Butoh, the Japanese avant-garde dance form that originated in 1959.
Ultimately, King of All the Land embodies authenticity, standing as a testament to collaboration and the pursuit of artistic truth. Each black-and-white image radiates freedom and rebellion, revealing the emotional depth of Mitski while prioritizing storytelling over superficial ideals. This collection invites viewers to reflect on the significance of artistic collaboration and genuine expression, challenging traditional representations of women in photography. Through Yıldız’s lens, viewers connect with Mitski’s striking openness and the transformative power of art, encouraging them to seek authenticity and connection in a world that often confines.
“I have so much respect and admiration for anyone that goes against the grain. . . Mitski is undeniably one of those rare people, and she is not doing it to go against the grain, but because she has a vision for how she wants her art to be experienced.” —Ebru Yıldız
“With Ebru, I can play. I can be my whole self and even try being what I didn’t think I was, and see how it feels. I can try to tell a story, to evoke emotion, and to search for meaning. I can still be 3D in a 2D image.” —Mitski
Mitski & Ebru behind the scenes (photo: Mitchell King)
EBRU YILDIZ, a New York-based portrait photographer originally from Turkey, has built a successful career spanning over 15 years. She is known for her distinctive black-and-white portrait style, which reveals the vulnerability and emotional depth of her subjects. Yıldız views each photoshoot as a collaborative effort and has gained particular recognition within the music industry, working with many notable and culturally significant artists. King of All the Land is her second photography book and the debut title from the new publishing company What Remains, founded by Ebru and Mitchell King. The book is co-published in collaboration with Skeleton Key Press.
Japanese-American artist MITSKI is “the most alluring and enigmatic musician in indie rock” (Rolling Stone), having released seven albums, four of which are certified gold in the US. Her critically acclaimed works include 2016’s Puberty 2, 2018’s Be The Cowboy, named Album of the Year by multiple outlets, and 2023’s The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We. A phenomenal performer, Mitski has captivated audiences with sold-out concerts worldwide, described by Variety as “a mesmerizing study in movement” and by The Guardian as “unusual, enigmatic and utterly compelling.” She has collaborated with artists like David Byrne and Son Lux on the Oscar-nominated “This Is A Life,” and is currently writing the music for The Queen’s Gambit musical adaptation. Her first concert film, Mitski: The Land, will be released theatrically in 30 countries this autumn.
MITCHELL KING is a New York City-based photographer, musician, and publisher. His landscape photography explores the darker aspects of nature in abstract details and vast empty spaces. He has exhibited in NYC, including Milk Studios Gallery and Calico Gallery. He collaborates with Ebru Yıldız in the publishing imprint What Remains, as well as with photo and video work. Mitchell is also the founder of Brooklyn Grain Photo Studios.
Published by Skeleton Key Press & What Remains, November 2025
ISBN 978-82-694125-0-5
22.9 x 30.5 cm (9 x 12 in)
Hardcover (clothbound/tipped-in images (front)/clear foil stamped spine & back cover), 144 pages + (5) six-page gatefolds and (1) eight-page gatefold), 109 duotone plates
Edited and sequenced by Ebru Yıldız and Russell Joslin
Book layout: Ebru Yıldız
Cover design and typesetting: Yeliz Secerli
Additional creative direction: Russell Joslin
Prepress: Mitchell King
Texts by Ebru Yıldız, Mitski, & Mitchell King
Text in English
First Edition, 2000 copies
