Dr. Akira Brian Yamashita and Ms. Melisa Mihal Kamibayashi Staples were awarded the Japanese Ambassador’’s Award.

Dr. Akira Brian Yamashita and Ms. Melisa Miharu Kamibayashi-Staples for their outstanding contributions to the Japanese community in Ottawa.                  

This past Thursday, August 31st, a large group of community members were invited to the Ambassador and Mrs. Yamanouchi’s residence to witness the conferment ceremony of this prestigious award upon our beloved community leaders Brian and Melisa.

After kind and thoughtful words from the Ambassador, Brian and Melisa each gave wonderful speeches, sharing credit for their accomplishments with our community.  These speeches were followed up by a wonderful tribute from former OJCA President Sachiko Okuda and a classy toast from Ron Shigeishi. 

Norman Takeuchi appointed to Order of Canada

Photo by M. Bernards, courtesy of the Royal Ontario Museum

The OJCA/OJCC would like to congratulate Ottawa-area artist, Norman Kiyomitsu Takeuchi on his appointment to the Order of Canada.

“For his enduring commitment to honouring, preserving and sharing the history and heritage of Japanese Canadians.”

Norman’s work reflecting on internment and displacement has been instrumental in ensuring that the experience of Japanese Canadians remains in the public discourse, ensuring that we never forget why human rights must be preserved and protected for all Canadians.

A retrospective of Norman’s work is currently on exhibit at the Ottawa Art Gallery – Galerie d’art d’Ottawa now extended until March 24, 2024, and a recording of an interview with Norman and the exhibit curatorial team can be found online at https://youtu.be/G39g9DmJUBE

This is a recording of a live discussion between artist Norman Takeuchi, and co-curators, Catherine Sinclair, Sachiko Okuda, and Bryce Kanbara.  

Two Japanese movies will be available in June!

My Small Land” and ” The Zen Diary ” will be screened at ByTowne Cinema in Ottawa in June.

Don’t miss out!

The Zen Diary: June 24, 4:15 pm & June 26, 4:00 pm, June 29 6:30pm

Those who watch the movie will receive merchandise provided by the sponsor, such as tea and bags! The number of products is limited.

Adapted from Tsutomu Mizukami’s book, “The Zen Diary” follows Tsutomu, a writer who lives alone in the mountains, writing essays, cooking food with vegetables he grows and mushrooms he picks in the hills. 

His routine is happily disturbed when Machiko, his editor/love interest, occasionally visits to pester him for his next manuscript. She loves to eat, and he loves to cook for her. Tsutomu seems content with his daily life. However, a close brush with death will now force him to decide on what he values most in life and what he must choose going forward.

This gentle, thoughtful drama considers the importance of aligning one’s life with the natural world’s flavours and rhythms.

The Zen Diary” Official teaser (ENG sub)

Buy Ticket

My Small Land : June 20, 6:30 pm

“My Small Land” is a 2022 Japanese-French drama film. The director is Emma Kawada, who makes her directorial debut. Depicts the Kurdish problem in Japan. Lina Kahafizadeh, her first movie appearance and her first starring role, was highly praised for her performance in this work and won various awards.

My Small Land English Subtitled Trailer

Buy Ticket

Kiwi Gardens Art in the Garden

This is one of the best events of the season!

Art in the Garden begins on Father’s Day Weekend.
A celebration, show and sale of creative work to complement and enliven your gardens & outdoor space. Over 20 artists will be present, showcasing their
work throughout Kiwi Gardens.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday 16-17-18 June

9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm                                                                      

Book your time of arrival, no limit on time spent at the show.

Tickets: $5.00 per person & $5.00 parking. Refundable if event is cancelled.

More info & Kiwi Garden: 687 Harper Rd, Perth, ON K7H 3C9