Akiko Yamagata, Owner & Editor
The hallmarks of my approach are qualities emblematized by graphite.
My edits are detailed and precise, like marks made by a sharpened pencil. Like an artist drawing a line after careful observation, I am closely attentive and responsive to the needs of your manuscript and your needs as an author.
Background
With my broad intellectual interests and deep curiosity about human experiences and perspectives, I edit manuscripts across the humanities and social sciences and for academic presses, journals, and individual scholars.
I specialize in anthropology, art history, East Asian studies (MA, Harvard), Japanese studies (especially premodern), museum studies, and sociology (BA, Williams College). As a bilingual, I am adept at editing the writing of EFL authors. I read and translate classical Japanese and edit translations from both modern and classical Japanese.
Starting Spring 2022, I will be an instructor in UCSD's Copyediting Program.
When I'm not at my desk, I am usually birdwatching or relearning the piano. I can also often be found wandering through bookstores and museums (I'm also a museum educator). I taught most recently in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's Art and Medicine program, where I used artworks to help medical professionals develop observation skills, build stronger teams, improve communication, and reflect on their practice.
Professional Service & Memberships
I am the chapter development chair of the Editorial Freelancers Association Board of Governors. I am also a member of the American Alliance of Museums, the Association for Asian Studies, and the Society of Writers, Editors, and Translators.