Tacoma, WA – World War II and Korean War veteran, George Wada, will display his vintage photography and discuss his art and experience in Japan and Korea as part of Free Ya Mind Entertainment’s ‘Art In The City Series’.

As part of Free Ya Mind’s entertainment platform, Wada, will share his unique photography of the Japanese landscape and structures as the country rebuilt after the infamous dropping of the atomic bombs on the island. “These pictures were taken in Japan when I was 32-36 – I was a personnel sergeant in the U.S. military, stationed in ‘Occupied Japan’,” said the 93-year’s young Wada.

Born of Japanese-American descent in California in 1915, Wada’s family was seized and interned in Rohwer, Arkansas as part of the umbrella racism practiced by the U.S. government during that era.  Marching through the inhumanity of the times, Wada would find his volunteerism as a soldier for his country enlightening and rewarding.  During his service in Japan, the leader found his dear wife Kakuko and found himself to adore Japan’s unique structural design and remembers, “The Japanese people were very polite and cordial during my stay.”

Wada is the featured artist of the month and will open Free Ya Mind’s evening with a presentation and an artist talk-back.  Additionally, Lori Whaley a story-teller will also give a special tribute to Japanese Culture.  “Mr. Wada and Ms. Whaley are true U.S. heroes, especially given the inhumanity endured and courage displayed by Mr. Wada to survive and thrive beyond racism and set a great example for people of color and all people,” said Stella Haioulani, CEO and President of Free Ya Mind.

FREE YA MIND’S ‘ART IN THE CITY SERIES’ presents GEORGE WADA & LORI WHALEY:

Friday August 29, 2008 from 7-9 pm at
Bostwick Tully’s Coffee on 9th and Broadway in Downtown Tacoma
Cost: FREE (donations appreciated)