Days after the 1906 earthquake, one artist grabbed his sketch pad

In the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, artist Chiura Obata began documenting the devastation through sketches, starting on April 25, just a week after the disaster. The Asian Art Museum's exhibition, “Bearing Witness: Selected Works by Chiura Obata,” showcases these watercolors, emphasizing the significant property loss and the struggles faced by Chinese and Japanese Americans in makeshift camps. Chief curator Rob Mintz noted that Obata’s images offer a unique perspective on the tragedy and its impact on the community. The sketches are organized chronologically, illustrating the progression of the aftermath. Obata, who was only 20 at the time, fled his lodgings on Leavenworth Street and immediately began to capture the unfolding tragedy.

His work not only reflects the physical destruction but also highlights the resilience of the affected communities. Additionally, Obata played a crucial role in establishing art schools in Japanese internment camps during World War II, further solidifying his legacy. The exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of the historical events and their lasting effects on the community.