Weather continued to not be in our favor, but we covered as much ground with the TLS as we could. In the morning, we opted to scan the garden feature that is being excavated by DU first, this way they have a visual of the location before removing layers of dirt.

Despite the rain, some friends from a nearby paleontology firm came out, and we talked digital shop for a bit, and how using TLS for their own work could help. I guess that’s one fun thing about digital archaeology, digital paleontology is just on the obverse side of the coin.

Later in the afternoon, I was able to get time to start structured light scanning at the small museum, beginning with a child’s furisode, or formal dress of an unmarried girl. This piece is in remarkable, if not, flawless condition for its age, and after touching base with some friends that focus on Japanese dress, has some features that aren’t seen in newer garments. The red lining, for example, is something pre-WWII, evidently it became inauspicious as a result of how Japanese Americans were treated. The garment itself was worn in the camp, and is seen during a home video where the young girl plays a koto, or long zither-like instrument on the road.

The initial scanning is of the garment simply open on the mannequin that was constructed for it by the DU team, allowing viewers to see the sharp contrast of the stunning red lining. Unfortunately, because of the black silk, my Eva kept throwing tracking issues, so I sought to try again the following day after an initial attempt at aligning the model failed. Early attempts at tying the obi was also challenging, so that’s when I reached out for help. Thankfully a friend, Lee, was able to stave some jitters by sharing with me some sources they were familiar with, so I had plenty to study when I returned to the hotel for the evening.

As far as thoughts go, I continue to be amazed at just how these internees were able to thrive the way they did. It provides some solace in what is otherwise a pretty heartbreaking experience overall.

A child. Playing a koto. In full formal dress.
In an internment camp. When it was determined that the color of the lining was now bad luck because of what was happening.