Mosquitos and flies in the barracks, Central Utah Relocation Project, Topaz, Utah, 1942-1944

Mine Okubo’s “Mosquitos and Flies,” created during her harrowing experience at Tanforan and Topaz—the Central Utah Relocation Center established during World War II—stands as a poignant testament to resilience and the enduring power of artistic observation amidst profound adversity. This deceptively simple black-and-white ink drawing captures not merely an insect infestation, but a microcosm of the anxieties and hardships endured by Japanese American families forcibly displaced from their homes under wartime hysteria.

• Subject Matter: The artwork depicts Mine Okubo seated at her desk within a barracks setting—a space emblematic of confinement and bureaucratic control—as swarms of mosquitos relentlessly pursue her through an open window. This juxtaposition immediately establishes a tension between focused creative endeavor and the inescapable realities of displacement.
• Style & Technique: Okubo employs meticulous hatching and cross-hatching techniques to render textures with remarkable precision, conveying both the physicality of the environment (the rough surface of the desk) and the delicate contours of her figure. The artist’s deliberate use of line work—characterized by fine detail—reflects a commitment to realistic representation while simultaneously hinting at an underlying emotional depth.
• Historical Context: “Mosquitos and Flies” is inextricably linked to the broader narrative of Japanese American incarceration during WWII, fueled by baseless accusations of espionage and loyalty to Japan. It serves as a visual record of daily life within the camps—a stark contrast to the idealized images often presented in propaganda—and underscores the psychological toll exacted upon individuals subjected to such unjust treatment.
• Symbolism: The pervasive presence of mosquitos can be interpreted as symbolic representations of discomfort, irritation, and the relentless intrusion of unwelcome circumstances into one’s personal space. Simultaneously, Okubo's direct gaze toward the viewer conveys strength and determination—a defiant assertion of identity amidst oppression.
• Emotional Impact: Beyond its technical mastery, “Mosquitos and Flies” resonates powerfully with viewers due to its ability to convey a palpable sense of vulnerability and quiet perseverance. The artwork’s understated elegance underscores Okubo's unwavering commitment to documenting her experiences—a courageous act of remembrance that continues to inspire reflection on themes of justice, resilience, and the transformative potential of art.

The drawing itself is executed with exceptional care, utilizing pen and ink on paper. Its dimensions are unknown but it’s a remarkable piece of visual history—a testament to Okubo's artistic vision and her unflinching portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history. It resides within the Japanese American National Museum’s collection (Gift of Mine Okubo Estate, 2007.62.188), where it stands as an enduring symbol of courage and artistic integrity.