japanese american — Journal – Recipes, Rituals, Travel and Design

Artist Ema Kubo on Blending Two Distinct Cultural Traditions on Paper

Ema is a Japanese American artist, art historian, art history teacher, and mother. What I love so much about Ema is how she shows us the realness of being an artist mama and of course her beautiful ink and watercolor work.

InterviewsArisa NakamuraMay 20, 2020culture, heirloom, japanese american, rituals, ema, kubo, artist, culture luminaries seriesComment

An Interview with the Artist Behind Alyson Iwamoto Ceramics

Today I am so excited to introduce you to one of my favorite jewelry designers and ceramicists, Alyson Iwamoto! For me, when I wear an Alyson Iwamoto piece, it also feels like a way to wear my heritage proudly for all to see, and there’s something profoundly healing and powerful in that.

InterviewsKristin PosnerSeptember 17, 2019jewelry, alyson, iwamoto, ceramics, maker, artisan, japanese, japanese americanComment

A Day at Japanese American Family Farm, Hikari Farms

A couple of years back, I was so happy to discover Hikari Farms through Bi-Rite market. Everything they grow is certified organic, and you can just feel the love they put into everything. So I was over the moon when Janet Nagamine, the second generation owner, reached out and invited me to the farm for a tour and nabe lunch. Today, I am so excited to share my experience and everything I learned about this small but mighty and inspirational farm here.

InterviewsKristin PosnerSeptember 11, 2019Hikari Farms, japanese american, japanese american history, family, family owned, local, foodComment

Obon Interview with Buddhist Priest Elaine Donlin

When I was growing up, I looked forward to a festival at my Japanese school and local Japanese American Buddhist Church, called Obon. Very simply put, Obon is like the Japanese version of Dia de los Muertos. It’s a time when we celebrate and honor the spirit of our ancestors through dance.

Manzanar Pilgrimage 2018

Manzanar was one of many prison camps that the American government sent Japanese-Americans to during World War II, in the name of national security. I recently visited the site- here are photos and reflections of hope from the 49th annual pilgrimage.