SHIGENO Yoshio
Born: 5 May 1875 – Died: 24 May 1943
Particulars:
Yoshio was born in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. He migrated to Western Australia in 1932 aboard the SS Charon and worked as a store manager in Cossack, a town once central to the state’s pearling industry. Yoshio was arrested in 1941 following Japan’s entry into World War II. He surrendered his belongings and 23 pounds in savings to the authorities and was interned, first at Harvey Camp and later at Tatura Internment Camp in Victoria. During internment, Yoshio’s health deteriorated. He was admitted to Waranga Hospital on 12 March 1943 and died on 24 May 1943 at the age of 68. His grave is in the Japanese Cemetery, Cowra, New South Wales, Australia.
–Jo Anne Shiosaki
More info:
Ben Shiosaki with Paul Gibson
Artist/s Statement:
My cousin Paul Gibson chose to adopt Yoshio Shigeno. Paul said:
‘I felt a strong emotional connection with Yoshio’s story as it was like my grandparents’ experience. Deep feeling of despair for them all, abruptly losing everything, that sense of belonging and pride. Could Yoshio and my grandparents have known each other in Tatura? A remarkable journey, so far away from their country.’
Artist Bio:
Ben Shiosaki is a fourth-generation Nikkei who resides in Geraldton, Western Australia. With a passion for history and photography, he believes these stories and legacies in the When You Call My Name Project should not be forgotten. Paul Gibson is Ben’s cousin.