August 13th 2023 O.A.

POKÉMON X KOGEI

An exhibition featuring the world of the popular game and anime, Pokémon “POKÉMON X KOGEI |Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft” is happening at JAPAN HOUSE in Hollywood.

More than 70 Pokémons are created using lacquer, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and other media.

From Living National Treasure metalworker to modern Japanese craft artist, 20 artists participated creating Pokémons with their style of art, giving a new side to traditional Japanese crafts.

The artworks are divided into 3 categories: Appearance, Stories, and Life.
Not only do each artworks recreate the Pokémon itself, but also their fur, skin, and the artist’s take on the story.
A Fire type Pokémon is created using a kiln, and each artist approaches the world of Pokémon very differently.

“POKÉMON X KOGEI |Playful Encounters of Pokémon and Japanese Craft” is held at JAPAN HOUSE LA until January 7th with free admission.
Some of the displays are to be changed during the exhibition, so please visit the JAPAN HOUSE website for more information.

Okinawa Association of America Picnic

Sunday, July 16th was the Okinawa Association of America (OAA) Picnic in South El Monte.

Picnic is a traditional event that began in the 1930s, organized by immigrants from Okinawa.
Members were finally able to gather now that Covid restrictions got lifted this year.

President Kamiya stated his greetings and followed by the radio calisthenics.

7 scholarship recipients were then announced and given to them at the spot.

OAA received the 2023 “California Nonprofit of the Year”, and an award ceremony was held in Sacramento.

About 500 people participated in the picnic. Everyone enjoyed their lunch with their friends and family, and had a great day by watching performances on the stage or playing games.