For my first post on this new website, I introduce Eisa Excellente, a photo book that was first published on Blurb in 2013. Eisa Excellente is a collection of images that were taken throughout Okinawa during eisa events and annual festivals.
The drum performance is traditionally done to welcome or send off the spirits of one's ancestors during Obon season, a time of year that is set aside for ancestor respect such as tending the family tomb. Eisa was typically performed in central Okinawa but has grown in popularity and expanded throughout the islands. Likewise, instead of being reserved for Obon season, it can now be enjoyed year-long.
Two of the largest festivals are the All-Island Eisa Festival, located in Okinawa City, where thousands of participants and spectators attend every year. People travel from the far reaches of the island (and abroad) to attend this festival that coincides with the Orion Beer Festival. It is a weekend full of dance, live music, food, and laughter.
Another popular event is the 10,000 Eisa Performer Festival, in Naha City where, as the title implies, 10,000 performers brave the summer heat to entertain large crowds on Kokusai Dori (International Street). Kokusai Street is a popular tourist destination that is lined with shops and souvenirs.
Both festivals make for a great opportunity for photographers and spectators to get a glimpse of eisa in its many forms and creative styles. With my first photobook, Eisa Excellente, I tried to capture some of the excitement to make it available for all to see.
If interested in seeing more from this eBook, follow the link to my profile on Blurb.
For paperback, the title will soon be offered on Amazon (hopefully). See below for details:
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