NOWNESS presents: Jizō's Memories
A haunting Butoh performance dedicated to the journey of the bodhisattva. By Kyoko Takenaka and Johan Planefeldt.
A film by Kyoko Takenaka + Johan Planefeldt
Starring Kyoko Takenaka
Cinematography & editing by Johan Planefeldt
Song: “Take Me To The Sun” by Elsz
Jizō's Memories ("地蔵の思い出 / 地蔵の重い出") is a short film that delves into the in-between realms of butoh dance and Buddhism, capturing the essence of a bodhisattva's journey through fragmented memories of earthly desires. As a bodhisattva traverses through the shifting landscapes of his past and present yearnings, the bodhisattva weaves together moments of profound joy and the haunting echoes of the underworld through glimpses of its past, present, and future lives. Jizō is known as a deity and guide for both the living and the dead in Japan, and is known for his ability to replicate himself one thousand times to save being caught in the six realms of transmigration (rokudō) in a cycle of endless rebirths. Through striking visuals and evocative dance, "Jizō's Memories" is a poetic exploration of the delicate balance between spiritual enlightenment and the shadowy depths of desire.
WATCH HERE ON NOWNESS ASIA
In “Home,” artist and filmmaker Kyoko Takenaka unveils a visual and sonic portrait of belonging and memory in four chapters. Calling upon the experiences that underline their otherness as an Asian-American, the film chronicles their contemplations through original song and poetry, as well as video clips, audio recordings and digital conversations captured from real-life experiences over the span of seven years. Through references to pop culture, racist imitations of Asians, and a defining return to their childhood home, “Home” is a multimedia statement on how the affirmation of culture, resistance and resilience can disrupt enduring myths and redeem our histories.
WATCH "HOME" BELOW:
TRAILER
THEME SONG - "ASIAN AMERICAN BLUES
LA ASIAN PACIFIC FILM FESTIVAL
LIVE SCORING
A mixed-media event featuring groundbreaking composers, emerging talent, and legendary artists who will perform alternative live scores for short films from Visual Communications’ award-winning filmography. Composers/Performers include Winston Raval, Diwa de Leon, Joy Ngiaw, and Kyoko Takenaka
PAST
SCREENINGS + Q&A
KUNG FLU VIRUS:
COME FLY
ME AWAY
Commissioned by The Music Center, Los Angeles.
Artist statement and artist conversation here
"For the Love of L.A"
