Message from sdubin

[Anonymous]

Since I missed one of the Saturday sessions, I visited the Japanese Art Museum that is part of LACMA. The first thing I noticed was the incredibly interesting architecture of the building. It soaring design was very modern, but referenced Japanese pagodas. The Bridge to the museum was framed with bamboo and vegetation that mimiced entering a garden. The interior of the museum is also visually arresting. it is designed like a spiral that gradually rises. The art is displayed along tables and short walls as the viewer travels up the sloping floor. It reminded me of an opening flower.

Although I visited this museum before, this time I understood a little better what the artwork was trying to depict. Having taken this seminar and done some of the readings, I had a better understanding of Japanese history and its timeline.

I found the exhibit on Japanese Prints: Word/Poem/Picture especially interesting. There was a section on the 100 poems by 100 poets which showed the illustrated scrolls with each poem. Unfortunately, the poems were not all translated. I read online later that these poems were made into a game that is still used to teach children about the imperial poets.

The other display that caught my attention was Poetry on Your Sleeve, an exhibit of cloth with poems or symbols on them. The one with chrysanthmums was beautiful.

This museum is truly a jewel in the Los Angeles landscape. Its unique collection and spectacular design make it a must-see for nyone interested in Eastern art.
Susan Dubin