Chikako Yamashiro's 'Flowers of Belau' explores Okinawan memory through film

Chikako Yamashiro's 'Flowers of Belau' illustrates the journey of an elderly man navigating Okinawa, skillfully merging sharp digital visuals with textured analog clips. For two decades, Yamashiro has delved into themes of historical memory, the impact of war, and the geopolitical landscape of Okinawa. The island, which Japan annexed in 1879 and which was occupied by the U.S. from 1945 until 1972, is depicted in a raw manner, standing in stark contrast to typical tourist portrayals. The film's soundscape features the hum of bus engines and ocean sounds, accompanied by a vibrato chorus, images of a weeping child, and deigo flowers. Additionally, scenes from the Republic of Palau showcase a child by the shore. The dialogue-free film contemplates memory. In her 2019 piece 'Chinbin Western,' Yamashiro emphasizes the preservation of the Okinawan language, while environmental threats loom from land reclamation efforts.