LA Artcore, 120 Judge John Aiso St. in Little Tokyo, proudly presents “Unfolding Memories: Art of Testimony,” an evocative new art exhibition by Japanese-born visual artist Chiho Harazaki.
On view Aug. 9 to 31, the exhibition explores themes of memory, identity, and cultural tension, inviting audiences to reflect on the enduring impact of wartime trauma. The opening reception and live event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 16, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Inspired by interviews with individuals who experienced the war in Japan and the U.S., “Unfolding Memories” weaves together art, storytelling, and music to reflect on the deep human cost of conflict. Harazaki’s mixed-media works — spanning drawing, painting, and installation — blend traditional Japanese aesthetic with contemporary materials, including her signature use of adhesive tape.
Informed by the voices of atomic bomb survivors and formerly incarcerated Japanese Americans, she creates pieces that bridge personal memory and political urgency — linking past injustice to current global tensions.
The opening night on Aug. 16 will feature a rare panel discussion with wartime witnesses Setsuo Tomita and Sally Hamamoto, moderated by historian Diana Tsuchida. The evening also includes live musical performances by Kozue Matsumoto, a koto player and CalArts graduate; Kevin Yokota, a drummer and USC Thornton School of Music graduate; Sara Sithi-Amnuai, an electroacoustic trumpeter and CalArts graduate; and a traditional Japanese music ensemble, L.A.’s 33 Strings.
Created as a space for dialogue and remembrance, “Unfolding Memories” invites audiences to reflect across generations and cultures — connecting history to the present and inspiring empathy, justice, and peace.
Admission is free and open to the public. Gallery hours: Thursday through Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m. For more information, visit chihoharazaki.com or follow @chiho_harazaki on Instagram.
About the Artist
Chiho Harazaki is a Los Angeles-based Japanese visual artist whose work blends traditional influences with contemporary techniques. With a background in two-dimensional studio art and further studies at ArtCenter College of Design Extension, she is known for her innovative use of materials — particularly her transformative tape art.
Centered on memory, identity, and cultural storytelling, her practice reflects the experience of a first-generation immigrant navigating inherited values and modern life. Harazaki has exhibited widely across Southern California in solo and group shows at venues including the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, Art Share L.A., Launch LA Gallery, and Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum of San Diego.
About the Gallery
LA Artcore is a nonprofit arts organization in Little Tokyo, dedicated to supporting emerging and underrepresented artists. Since its founding in 1979, it has provided a platform for diverse artistic voices through exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programs.
Committed to inclusivity, LA Artcore embraces artists of all identities — across race, gender, sexuality, socio-economic background, and ability — by showcasing contemporary works from both local and international creators.