Wakaji Matsumoto

An Artist in Two Worlds: Los Angeles and Hiroshima, 1917-1944

The Wakaji Matsumoto—An Artist in Two Worlds: Los Angeles and Hiroshima,1917–1944 online exhibition highlights the rare photographs of an Issei farmer turned photographer who captured the Japanese American community in Los Angeles and urban life in Hiroshima prior to the 1945 atomic bombing of the city. The Watase Media Arts Center produced these short videos narrated by exhibition curator Dennis Reed about Wakaji Matsumoto in conjunction with the exhibition.

 

Episode 1: His Early Days

Dennis Reed discusses Wakaji’s beginnings working on his father’s farm and as a photographer in Los Angeles.

Produced by May Kono and Evan Kodani
2022
3 minutes

 

Episode 2: Little Tokyo

Dennis Reed explores Wakaji’s involvement in the Los Angeles Little Tokyo photography community before World War II.

Produced by May Kono and Evan Kodani
2022
3 minutes

 

Episode 3: Hiroshima

Dennis Reed delves into Wakaji’s experiences as a professional photographer in Hiroshima before World War II. 

Produced by May Kono and Evan Kodani
2022
3 minutes

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