A new art exhibit at the Bellevue Library highlights the history of Japanese American farmers in the area. Called Emerging Radiance, the piece is part of the City of Bellevue’s public art collection and will be on display through at least February 2027.
Created by artists Tani Ikeda and Michelle Kumata, Emerging Radiance is designed like a small farmhouse with colorful paintings on all four sides. The artwork depicts Japanese American farmers who lived in Bellevue from 1920 until 1942, when they were forced to leave by the federal government and sent to incarceration camps along with 120,000 other Japanese Americans during World War II.
The exhibit honors these farmers, who helped shape Bellevue by clearing land and growing crops. By sharing their stories, Emerging Radiance brings attention to an important but often overlooked part of local history.
“At our core, libraries are about opening doors to insight, inspiration and learning. Emerging Radiance is a beautiful expression of history and perspectives and how they intertwine with the communities we serve here in Bellevue,” said Heidi Daniel, executive director of the King County Library System. “Our partnership with the City of Bellevue made this possible, and I want to commend the artists for sharing their work with everyone in the community.”
Visitors can also explore an interactive website connected to the exhibit. The site includes audio recordings from former Bellevue residents Toshio Ito, Rae Matsuoka Takekawa, and Mitsuko Hashiguchi, who share their experiences before, during, and after World War II.
