Visual Arts
Highlights
“La Influencia – The influence of Oaxacan master artists Fulgencio Lazo, Enrique Flores Gonzalez, & Shinzaburo Takeda” is a group show that examines the steady exchange of artists between Seattle and Oaxaca. This show highlights the contribution of contemporary Oaxacan culture to the Northwest as well as the growing connections between our two regions as exemplified by the inclusion of Seattle artists Manuel Bernal, Romson Regarde Bustillo, Isidro Fabian, Eva Isaksen, and Kamla Kakaria. On view Sept. 23 through Oct. 25. Opening reception is Sept. 25 from 6 – 8pm. Co-presented by Pratt Fine Arts Center and the M. Rosetta Hunter Art Gallery at Seattle Central Community College. 1701 Broadway on Capitol Hill. Free. (206) 934-4379 or go to www.seattlecentral.edu/artgallery.
“Echo at Satsop” is an exhibition by Etsuko Ichikawa inspired by sound samples collected during her site-specific project at a decommissioned nuclear plant at Elma, Washington. Comprised of one sound installation, a short film and her signature pyrographs & aquagraphs. On view through Sept. 28th. Local artist Eunice Kim has a show of “New Collagraph Monoprints” from Oct. 3 – Nov. 12th. She will do a print making demonstration as well. All events at Davidson Galleries at 313 Occidental Ave. S. For information, call (206) 624-7684 or go to www.davidsongalleries.com.
“A-Zi Northwest Natives – New Crayon & Pencil Carvings” is a show of new work by Seattle artist Diem Chau. First Thursday opening reception on Sept. 5 from 6 – 8pm. On view through Oct. 5 at G. Gibson Gallery at 300 S. Washington. (206) 587-4033 or go to www.ggibsongallery.com.
METHOD is a new gallery that exhibits art that is experimental, forward-thinking, unconventional and predominately based in sculpture, installation, new media or performance. Started by local artists Mary Coss, Paul D. McKee, June Sekiguchi and Paula Stokes who identified a need for a new exhibition space where they could present exceptional, exploratory, challenging art that might not be seen in more traditional galleries. The current show “information + impression” features the work of Vancouver B.C. artist Connie Sabo. This Chinese Canadian artist has filled the room with a full-length sculptural piece made of hand-twisted newspaper. 1st Thursday reception is on Sept. 5 from 5 – 8pm. Remains on view through Sept. 21. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 12 – 5pm or by appointment. In the Tashiro Kaplan Building at 106 Third Ave. S. Go to www.methodgallery.com for details.
“East Meets West through Art, Poetry and Revolution” is a group show that includes the prints and poetry of artists known as “Pre-Misty Poets”, painter Lu Yansheng and poet Lu Shuangqin. Northwest Chinese American artist Cheryll Leo-Gwin shows her multi-media work which is a combination of painting and digital media based on her own history and the U.S. Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882. Presented by Sammamish Arts Commission. On view till Sept. 30, 2013. In the Commons Gallery of Sammamish City Hall. In a related exhibition, Kirkland Arts Center hosts another group exhibition entitled “Observations from the New Gold Mountain”. This show features the figurative work of Lu Yansheng, a visiting painter from Beijing and a collection of work by local Seattle artists Alan Lau, MalPina Chan, Kathy Liao, Barry Wong and Ron Ho. It was curated by Cheryll Leo-Gwin. Opening reception is Friday, Sept. 6 from 6:30 – 8pm. On view through. 620 Market St. in Kirkland. (425) 822-7161 or go to www.kirklandartscenter.org.
“Facets Of Life” is a group show featuring local ethnic artists Humaira Abid, Stewart Wong, Sabah Al-Dhaher, Esther Ervin and Gail Tremblay currently on view till June 29, 2014. Ethnic Heritage Art Gallery on the 6th Floor Plaza of Seattle Municipal Tower located at 700 Fifth Ave. For details, go to www.seattle.gov/EthnicArtGallery.
“Gen Hayashida: Handled With Care”. In a world of emails, bills and junk mail, it’s a rare event to get a handwritten postcard. Santa Fe-based artist Gen Hayashida makes sculptural postcards which he sends to friends. Laced with humor and made from a variety of materials that take into account texture and sound, the cards will be on display through Sept. 28th. At Paper Hammer downtown at 1400 – 2nd Ave. Hours are M – Sat. from 11am – 6pm. Go to http://paper-hammer.com/ for details.
“Empowering Women: Artisan Cooperatives that Transform Communities”. All over the world, female artisans are creating grassroots cooperatives to reach new markets, raise living standards and transform lives. This exhibit looks at ten such enterprises in ten countries including India, Thailand and Mongolia. An event connected to this show is “Threads of Bangladesh”. Filmmaker Cathy Stevulak talks about Bengali artist, Surayia Rahman and the community of women artisans that saved the “kantha” embroidery quilting tradition from being lost. Sept. 8 at 1pm. For details, email cstevulak@gmail.com. At the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture on the Seattle UW campus. On view till Oct. 27, 2013. 17th Ave. NE & NE 45th St. (206) 543-5590 or go to http://burkemuseum.org/empowering.
Though IDEA Odyssey Collective lost their physical gallery space in the ID, they continue to do interesting projects all over town. “This Place Called Home” is a collaborative art project with Asian elders from Legacy House, an assisted living care facility. Artists Kathy Liao and Darius Morrison worked with the elderly to use their memories to create art. On view during regular business hours from M – F. SCIDpda’s IDEA Space is at 409 Maynard Ave. S., Plaza Level. Want to know more about what IDEA Odyssey Collective is up to? Log on to http://ideaodysseygallery.com/blog.
New and recent shows due to open at the Wing include the following – “SWEET” explores the role of sweets in the traditions. On view through Jan. 5, 2014. There will be an “Asian Sweet Tour” of the neighborhood. Offered at 3pm on Sept. 21 and Oct. 19th. RSVP required. Call (206) 623-5124 to purchase tickets. On view till Jan. 19, 2014 is “War Baby/Love Child: Mixed Race Asian American Art” co-curated by Laura Kina and Wei Ming Dariotis. “Under My Skin – Artists Explore Race in the 21st Century” continues at the Wing. Work was selected from 27 artists after months of discussions and viewing. Artists in this show include John Armstrong, Jenny Asamow, Wanda Benvenutti, Jasmine Brown, Kathy Budway, Minh Carrico, Lemuel Charley, Ling Chun, May Coss, Carina del Rosario, Tatiana Garmendia, Erin Genia, Ronald Hall, Chau Huynh, Akiko Jackson, Laura Kina, Naima Lowe, Fumi Matsumoto, Kathleen McHugh, Darius Morrison, Cahn Nguyen, Polly Purvis, Jennifer Smith, Joseph Songco and Tim Stensland. On view till Nov. 17, 2013. Opening Sept. 5 is “#iconic: Power and Pop Culture” which explores how Asian American pop icons are made and what it means to look up to – or challenge – these figures. Opening reception for museum members is 6 – 7pm. To RSVP, email or call mmartiez@wingluke.org or (206) 623-5124×107. Free and open to the general public from 7 – 8pm. Shoro Harada Roshi, Rinzai sect Zen Master will give a demonstration and talk about the long and rich history of Zen calligraphy. On Sunday, Sept. 15 from 2 – 5pm. His calligraphy will be on sale. Tickets are $5. Space is limited. For tickets, call (206) 623-5124. Artist Mizu Sugimura shows you how to make grandma/grandpa kokeshi dolls as part of “Family Fun Day” set for Sat., Sept. 21 from 1 – 3pm. Free. Sat., Sept. 28th is “Mix It Up”, a workshop for artists from 2 – 5pm. Maria Villafrance from the New York Foundation of the Arts will discuss strategies for sustaining your artistic practice, including an overview of opportunities available to artists in Washington and nationwide. Geared toward individual artists across disciplines at all stages in their careers. “Q &
A” session follows. $10 general and $7 for members & students. To purchase tickets for this event, call (206) 623-5124. 719 South King St. (206) 623-5124 or visit www.wingluke.org. Closed Mondays. Tuesday – Sunday from 10am – 5pm. First Thursday of each month is free from 10am – 8pm. Third Saturday of each month is free from 10am – 8pm.
The work of Patti Warashina is included in “First Light”, a regional group exhibition curated by 7 local curators including Norie Sato. It is just one of the many exhibitions in the sparkling new Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, the most recent addition to our Northwest museums and just a walk away from the ferry. 550 Winslow Way East. Open daily from 10am – 6pm. Free admission. Go to www.biartmuseum.org for details.
The work of Paul Horiuchi, Joseph Park and Akio Takamori is included in “For the Love of Art: Creating the New Northwest – Selections from the Herb and Lucy Pruzan Collection” currently on view at Tacoma Art Museum through Oct. 6. 1701 Pacific Ave. in Tacoma. Open Wed. – Sun. from 10am – 5pm and Third Thursdays from 10am – 8pm. For details, go to www.TacomaArtMuseum.org.
“ Future Beauty: Thirty Years of Japanese Fashion” is on view through September 8 at Seattle Art Museum. Three decades of innovative design on display with a “Who’s Who” listing of designers like Issey Miyake, Kenzo Takada, Rei Kawakubu, Yohji Yamamoto, Junya Watanabe, Jun Takahasi and others. Special Exhibition Tours take place Wed. – Sun. through Sept. 8 at 1pm & 2pm. Also “My Favorite Things: Highly Opinionated Public Tours” brings artists, cultural producers and community figures into the galleries to discuss their favorite works of art in “Future Beauty”. Every Thursday through Sept. 5 at 6:30pm. Free with museum admission. Check seattleartmuseum.org on who’s speaking. Family Fun Workshop activities with this show include the following – “Future Beauty:Community Night Out” takes place on Thursday, Sept. 5 from 6 – 9pm at SAM downtown. An evening of free live music, art making, tours, performances and workshops all inspired by “Future Beauty”. Something for everyone and free with museum admission. “Future Beauty” related items by Yasuyuki Machia, Barbara & Michael Pickett, Kosuke Tsumura, Issey Miyake and others available in the SAM Shop. Groups of ten or more get discounted tickets and 10% off in the shop and restaurant. Also private guided tours are available and last one hour. A flat-rate tour fee charged in addition to tickets. For information of the above 2 items, call (206) 344-5260. This exhibition conceived by the Kyoto Costume Institute and Barbican Art Gallery, London. The Seattle show organized by Kyoto Costume Institute and Seattle Art Museum with support from Wacoal Corporation and 4Culture. Get your tickets online at seattleartmuseum.org/Future Beauty.
“Patti Warashina – wit and wisdom” is a not-to-miss retrospective of this Northwest treasure known for her witty, satiric and immaculately crafted figurative sculpture that looks at the politics and foibles of life. Through Oct. 17th. Bellevue Arts Museum. 510 Bellevue Way N.E. Go to www.bellevuearts.org for details.
Currently on view at Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park –On view through April 13, 2014 is “A Fuller View of China, Japan And Korea” which shows how museum founding director Dr. Richard Fuller, his family and friends built up SAM’s celebrated Asian art collection. On view through June 29, 2014 is “INKED – Wan Qingli”. This artist trained during the Cultural Revolution, uses a sharp wit and brush to match to address contemporary social ills with playful brush strokes full of humor and universal themes. On view till June 28, 2014 is “Hometown Boy: Liu Xiaodong”. Now heralded as one of China’s renowned contemporary artists, Lui grew up in a small industrial town before moving to Beijing. As a mature artist he returns to his hometown to find childhood friends still struggling, undeveloped rice paddies and his parents’ house still the same. Now an outsider, he captures the nuances of small town life in a typical Chinese town. SAM members get an up-close look at these exhibitions on Thursday, Sept. 12 from 10am – 9pm. At lpm, Japanese Art Curator Xiaojin Wu gives a tour of “A Fuller View”. At 5:30pm, artist Liu Xiaodong will give a personal tour of his show, “Hometown Boy”. Liu will give a talk at 7pm. $5 tickets for the talk. Chinese sculpture scholar Derek Gilman speaks about “The Imperial Luohans of Zhongdu” on Thurs., Oct. 3 at 7pm. And a Fall Saturday University Lecture Series entitled “Empires That Changed Asia” runs from Oct. 5 – Dec. 7th. Nine speakers investigate empires from ancient to 20th century Asia. Series tickets on sale from August 20th. (206) 654-3210 or visit tickets.seattleartmuseum.org/public. 1400 E. Prospect St. Closed Mondays & Tuesdays. (206) 654-3100 for general information.
Always a splashy, fun event is the annual Bunka Gakuen University Fashion Show with the latest creations from Japanese fashion students. It takes place Sept. 22. At 1pm & 3pm. Yohji Yamamoto whose work is in SAM’s current “Future Beauty” show studied at this school. To advance reserve your free tickets to this event, go to http://bellevue.patch.com/groups/annoucements/p/bunka-gakuen-university-fashion-show-2013 OR email Tomoko at fashion@ushomestay.com or call her at (425) 483-5974.
Local artist Junko Yamamoto’s colorful abstract paintings explore the space between things. She likes to push and pull two -dimensional spaces with paint to bring them light and atmosphere. See her work displayed at TASTE, the restaurant at Seattle Art Museum downtown. Opening reception is Oct. 9 from 5 – 6pm. Remains on view through Feb. 9, 2014. Presented by SAM Gallery. 1300 First Ave. (206) 903-5291.
“Harmonics”, a meditative exploration of color, light and energy is presented in the layered paintings of Seattle artists William Song and Ullie De Osu on view till Sept. 28th. ArtXchange Gallery at 512 1st Ave. S. (206) 839-0377 or go to www.artxchange.org.
“LUMINASIA – The Larger-Than-Life Lantern Festival” is an exclusive new attraction at the Washington State Fair from Sept. 6 – 22 and weekends Sept. 27 – Oct. 13th. The traditional form of Chinese lantern making has been modernized, using high tech materials with state-of-the-art lighting and production. Designed for the entire family. Tickets start at $10. Information & tickets at thefair.com.
Roldy Aguero Ablao, Yun Hong Chang, and Spar Wilson are in a show entitled “Forecast” on view through Sept. 22. Guest-curated by sculptor /curator June Sekiguchi. Columbia City Gallery at 4864 Rainier Ave. S. (206) 760-9843. Open Wed. – Sun. Go to columbiacitygallery.com for details.
“Samurai!” is an exhibit of ancient pieces of armor and weaponry from the 14th-19th centuries in Japan. This exhibition highlights the functionality, variety and evolution that came with the increased demand during wartime. Opens Oct. 5 at Portland Art Museum and runs through Jan. 12, 2014. This is the only West Coast stop for this show. 1219 S.W. Park Ave. (503) 226-2811. Closed Mondays. Go to www.portlandartmuseum.org for details.
Z.Z. Wei’s paintings capture the spirit of western Washington landscape and a whimsical, rural America. His new work opens Sept. 5 from 6 – 8pm and remains on view through Sept. 30. Patricia Rovzar Gallery. 1225 Second Ave. in Seattle. (206) 223-0273 or go to www.rozargallery.com for details.
The Art Stop features handmade American craft representing Northwest artists as well as those from around the country. “Vases and Vessels” is a solo show featuring new work by Reid Ozaki complete with his own floral arrangements to compliment his stoneware vases. Opens Sept. 7 and remains on view through Oct. 31. 940 Broadway in Tacoma. (253) 274-1630 or go to www.artstoptacoma.com.
KOBO Gallery at Higo in Japantown/International District has the following –Seattle artist Etsuko Ichikawa shows new work with her father Koichi Ichikawa’s ceramics in a show titled “The line that runs through – conversations of father & daughter.” Through Sept. 21. “Signs of Life, evidence of a human experience” is the title of a collection of photographs by Adam Collet that look at human artifacts illuminated by decommissioned X-ray viewers. Sept. 28 – Oct. 17th with opening reception on Sept. 28th from 4 – 6pm. Graphic designer and illustrator Junichi Tsuneoka has a show entitled “Chibi Pocket Toy Sculptures” on view Oct. 5 – Oct. 26th. Opening reception is Oct. 5. Local Northwest art treasure Patti Warashina gives a slide about her work currently on view at Bellevue Arts Museum through Oct. 27th in “An Afternoon with Patti Warashina” set for Oct. 12 from 4 – 6pm. Hosted by Alan Lau. 604 S. Jackson. Go to koboseattle.com for updates. 604 S. Jackson St.
The Friends of Asian Art present Dr. David Paly speaking on the topic of “Textiles of the Li, Minority Ethnic Group of China” on Sun., Sept. 29 at 1pm. Paly will also present samples of the textile weaving of this Chinese ethnic group. Email FriendsOfAsianArt@earthlink.net for more details.
Seattle artist Naoko Morisawa has work included in “CoCa Collision” at Center of Contemporary Art (CoCa) through Sept. 14th. 5701 6th Ave. S. # 258 in Seattle. Visit www.cocaseattle.org for details. Also belated congratulations to Morizawa who won the Puffin Foundation Grant and was a finalist for the 2013 Art Kudos International juried Competition & Exhibition.
Sogetsu School of Ikebana’s Seattle Branch has their annual “Autumn Exhibition” on Sept. 21 & 22 at Seattle Asian Art Museum. 10am – 5pm on Sat. and 10am – 4pm on Sunday. Free. Demonstrations held at 1pm & 2pm on both days. 1400 E. Prospect St. For details, contact megumi.schacher@frontier.com.
“American Heroes: Japanese American World War II Soldiers and the Congressional Gold Medal” is an exhibit at Oregon Historical Society Aug. 24th – Sept. 29th. 1200 SW Park Ave. in Portland. (503) 222-1741 or visit www.ohs.org.
Pacific Northwest Nikkei WWII veterans are featured in a special exhibition entitled “Our Humble Heroes: Stories of Service and Sacrifice during WWII.” Aug. 24th – Jan. 5th. Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center at 121 NW 2nd Ave. in Portland. (503) 224-1458 or visit www.oregonnikkei.org.
Portland Japanese Garden Moon Viewing Festival takes place Sept. 18 – 20th from 7 – 9pm. 611 SW Kingston Ave. (503) 542-0280 or go to www.japanesegardencom.
At the University of Washington’s Henry Art Gallery they have the following – Early warning- Opening Oct. 15 will be the first solo museum exhibition given to Korean-born artist Haegue Yang who presents “Towers on String”, a series of sculptures constructed with venetian blinds. 15th Ave. NE & NE 4lst St. on the UW Seattle campus. (206) 543-2280 or go to info@henryart.org.
Congratulations to ceramic artist and UW Professor Akio Takamori who was selected by the Museum of Glass in Tacoma for their 2nd Annual “Fuel Their Fire” Residency Program. While there, Takamori will have the use of the facility and assistance from the staff. The museum is at 1801 Dock St. in Tacoma. (866) 468-7368.
Seattle artist Saya Moriyasu has a new website. To see what she’s up to, go to SayaMoriyasu.com.
Seattle painter Thuy-van Vu has a show of her works on paper at Courtyard Gallery at the University of Texas at Austin through August 30th. She shows locally at G. Gibson Gallery.
Congratulations to Seattle artist Saya Moriyasu who is a recent recipient of a 2013 Artist Trust Fellowship.
The work of Tacoma jewelry artist Lisa Kinoshita can now be found at the Seattle Art Museum’s SAM Shop. She uses found objects and earthly materials and/or metal and glass pieces that she fabricates herself. 1300 First Ave. in downtown Seattle. Go to seattleartmuseum.org.
Seattle-raised artist Roger Shimomura (see related article in this issue) has a show of new work entitled “An American Knockoff” on view through Sept. 28 at Greg Kucera Gallery at 212 Third Ave. S. Go to http://ww.gregkucera.com for details. Shimomura’s work is included in a group show entitled “I, You, We” now at Whitney Museum in New York through September 1.
If your travels take you to the Bay Area and you like Chinese ink painting, then don’t miss this – “The Moment for Ink” is a massive group show designed to promote the awareness of the ink painting tradition in America. One of the curators was struck by a remark made by noted Chinese art historian Michael Sullivan that many of the greatest Chinese painters in the latter half of the 20th century lived in the U.S. Thus the genesis for this show that looks at the history of ink painting in this country as it grew and blossomed and changed. It represents one of the first times so many institutions of art have collaborated on presenting one show. On view through Oct. 27 at Asian Art Museum of San Francisco (415-581-3500 or www.asianart.org) at 200 Larkin St. On view through June 22 at Chinese Culture Center San Francisco (415-986-1822 or www.c-c-c.org) at 750 Kearny St.
The late Alfonso Ossorio, one of the first Filipino American modern abstract painters and a contemporary and friend of Jackson Pollock will have a show of his work from September to October, 2013 in New York at Michael Rosenfeld Gallery at 100 Eleventh Ave. at 19th. (212) 247-0082 or go to michaelrosenfeldart.com.
In commemoration of Asian Heritage Month, an exhibit entitled “I Want the Wide American Earth: An Asian Pacific American Story” opened in May at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. and remains on view there through June 18. The exhibit celebrates the history of Asian Pacific Americans. The exhibit travels to the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles in September and continues on a 13-city national tour. Closest Northwest stop will be in Ontario, Oregon. The exhibit was curated by Lawrence-Ming Bui Davis, coordinator of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center Initiative. On December 21, it opens at the Four Rivers Cultural Center at 676 SW Fifth Ave. in Ontario, Oregon. Call (541) 889-8191 or go to www.4rcc.com. For information about the exhibit, go to www.apa.si.edu.
“Meet Me at Higo” permanent exhibit- Part Two” presented and sponsored by the Wing is a multi-media presentation and self-guided tour that tells the origins and history of the store as a Japanese American five and dime. At Kobo at Higo, 604 South Jackson. E-mail info@koboseattle.com or call (206) 381-3000.
The Wing has the following shows and activities. “Under My Skin: Exploring Race in the 21st Century” is a new group show of 27 artists chosen after dozens of meetings and thoughtful discussions. Show remains on view through Nov. 17. An on-going exhibit “I Am Filipino” continues and offers a gateway of history through the telling of personal stories from Filipino American local families. Also small exhibits examine the identity and culture of Sikhs in America and the history of the “Killing Fields” in Cambodia. “Vietnam in the Rear View Mirror” explores the complex, interwoven identity of Vietnamese Americans as seen through the eyes of a younger generation. A YouthCAN exhibit entitled “Ghosts in The Field”. “Manifest” is a new show of photography by Seattle Girls’ School students from a workshop taught by Mugi Takei as part of the Teensway Program. For information on all of the above, go to www.wingluke.org or call (206) 623-5124.
Bryan Ohno, former Pioneer Square gallery owner is back in business. His new gallery is now in the ID at 521 S. Main St.
San Diego-based artist Wendy Murayama’s “Tag Project” is currently touring the country as part of a “Executive Order 9066” exhibition. She and volunteers replicated the tags used to identify each Japanese American internee from every camp and constructed an art installation. Maruyama is a U.S. – Japan Creative Artist fellow and recently concluded a two- week residency at Pilchuck School of Glass. Here, glass tusks were constructed for her USA Project Proposal, The WildLIFE Project.
Performing Arts
Highlights
Over the years, Seattle choreographer/dancer Yoko Murao has presented some striking performances in site-specific locations. She re-emerges from her semi-retirement to present “From the Other Side of the Shore”, a site-specific performance at a private residence on Fauntleroy. Choreography by Yoko Murao and sound score by Eyvind Kang and Jessika Kenny. Sept. 7, 8 & 9 at 7pm. 9263 Fauntleroy Way S.W. in Seattle. Audience size is limited so please RSVP by emailing judithstapleton@shaw.ca. Donations are appreciated.
Jazz saxophonist and composer Steve Griggs performs his Panama Hotel Jazz Project all summer at the Panama Hotel Tea & Coffee House. The compositions are inspired by his research of the historic Panama Hotel and the largely unwritten history of this establishment which was a touchstone for the Seattle Japanese American community. Designed by Japanese architect Sabro Ozasa, the building is home to the last remaining intact Japanee “sento” bathhouse. Possessions left by Japanese Americans when they were forced to leave remain as artifacts. Griggs was introduced to the popular novel by Jamie Ford entitled “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” that chronicles story of Seattle on the eve of WWII involving denizens of what was then Japantown, Chinatown and the many jazz clubs that lined the streets. Griggs compositions are influenced by local Japanese American history and the forced internment of a complete community. 607 S. Main St. Upcoming performances set for Sept. 7, 14 & 21 at 2pm. (206) 223-9242.
Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival brings traditional and modern Chinese songs, folk dances and instruments performed by the Joy of Singing Arts group, Seattle Ensemble of songs and Dances and Zhenlun Cello Studio. Free. Sept. 7 from 2 – 4:30pm. At Seattle Public Library at 4th & Madison downtown. (206) 684-0849 or go to http://www.spl.org/.
The annual Night Market & Autumn Moon Festival takes place on Sept. 7th from 6pm – midnight at Union Station Plaza in Seattle’s Chinatown/ID neighborhood. Facebook.com/seattlenightmarket.
Sept. 8 brings “Live Aloha – Hawaiian Cultural Festival” at Seattle Center Armory all day. Free. Explore music, dance, foods and culture of the islands. 11am – 7pm. (206) 650-4882 or go to www.seattlelivealohafestival.com.
Eastside Nihon Aki Matsuri is an annual Japanese cultural festival held at Bellevue College on Sept. 7 & 8th. Bellevue College at 3000 Landerholm Circle SE in Bellevue. Free. Go to www.enma.org for details.
Japanese singer songwriter Shinji Harada performs a Peace Concert as part of Aki Matsuri 2013 on Sept. 7 at 6:30pm. Bellevue College’s Carlson Theatre at 3000 Landerholm Circle SE in Bellevue. (425) 861-7865 or visit www.enma.org.
Pankaj Udhas performs live in concert on Sept. 13 at 8:30pm at Northshore Performing Arts Center at 18125 – 92nd Ave. N.E. in Bothell. (253) 261-4455.
China National Acrobatic Troupe performs “The Dream Of The Golden Crown” on Sept. 20 & 21 at McCaw Hall at Seattle Center. (206) 684-7200.
“Thai Festival” with Thai cultural activities and food takes place on Sept. 22 from 11am – 6pm. Free. University Heights Center on the South Grounds. N.E. 50th & University Way N. E. in Seattle. For details, go to thaiwashington.org.
“TurkFest” presents the cultural roots of Turkey through live performances, visual arts, foods, an authentic Turkish teahouse and a lively bazaar. Free. Oct. 19-20th. Seattle Center Armory. (206) 684-7200 or go to seattlecenter.com.
Margaret Cho’s new stand-up comedy tour entitled “Nothing Is Sacred Least Of All This MOTHER” comes to Seattle’s Moore Theatre on Sat., Nov. 16th. Tickets at STGPRESENTS.ORG or call (877) 784-4849. Tickets on sale at the Paramount Theatre Box Office 7 24 hour kiosk.
If you want to learn how to break, pop or lick or just need some help with your moves, go to The Beacon, the Massive Monkees Dance Studio where world famous dance instructors can teach you hip-hop choreography, creative movement and more. All ages and skill levels welcome. 664 S. King St. Go to MASSIVEMONKEES.COM and facebook.com/MassiveMonkeesStudio for information.
As part of ARCADE’s Seattle Design Festival, UW Visual Communications instructor Karen Cheng gives a talk entitled “On Design Education” on Thursday, Sept. 19 at Seattle Art Museum. 1300 First Ave. downtown.
Singer/songwriter Vienna Teng has a loyal following in the Northwest. She’s be venturing out from Michigan to tour in support of a new album and performs Nov. 20th at the Neptune. Tickets at stgpresents.org.
Degenerate Art Ensemble’s next production promises to be a whopper. It’s a collaboration with Kronos String Quartet in a performance of DAE’s Predator’s Songstress. Haruko Nishimura will do the choreography and dance. Six singers will be involved including the very talented Dohee Lee. Nov. 16 at the Neptune. Tickets at stgpresents.org.
For Jazz, New York seems to be the place to play and be heard. Many musicians from around the world flock to this city to test their musical mettle. New recordings attest to this. Miho Hazama has a new release entitled “Journey to Journey” (Sunnyside) in which she flaunts unconventional arrangements and a big band centered around a string quartet. “Bloom” (Nineteen-Eight Records) is the title of a new release by the Asuka Kakitani Jazz Orchestra with compositions and arrangements by Kakitani. For a few years, her orchestra has had a steady gig at Brooklyn’s Tea Lounge. Tatsuya Nakatani has performed hundreds of percussion solo pieces throughout the country but in recent years, he has gravitated towards producing, directing and conducting large gong orchestras. His new recording “Nakatani Gong Orchestra” (Taiga) documents these encounters.
The 61st Annual Critic’s Poll for Downbeat, a monthly jazz magazine is out in their August 2013 and Asian and Asian American musicians fared well. Rudresh Mahanthappa won in the “Alto Saxophone” category, Jon Irabagon won in the “Tenor Saxophone” category and Rez Abbasi took the “Rising Star, Guitar” category. Vijay Iyer ranked second in the “Piano” category. Other musicians who critics voted for included pianist Hiromi who rated mention in the “Rising Star, Piano” category along with Helen Sung. Hiromi got another mention as did Mamiko Watanabe in the “Rising Star, Keyboard” category. Paris-based Nguyen Le earned a mention in the “Rising Star, Guitar” category. Linda Oh and David Wong both earned mention under the “Rising Star, Bass” category. Oh also charted in the “Bass” category. Jason Kao Hwang earned a mention under the “Violin” category.For “Rising Star, Electric Bass” category, the always in-demand Stomu Takeishi earned a nod. Seattle’s Eyvind Kang ranked second in the “Rising Star, Violin” category. Satoshi Takeishi rated in the “Rising Star, Percussion” category. Jen Shyu rated under the “Rising Star, Female Vocalist” category. Rudresh Mahanthappa rated second in the “Rising Star, Composer” category. Taylor Ho Bynum got mention in the “Rising Star, Producer” category. Grace Kelly ranked third under the category of “Rising Star, Alto Saxophone”. Under “Rising Star, Big Band”, the Satoko Fujii Orchestra earned mention. Hiromi also got a mention under the “Rising Star, Jazz Artist” while Jon Irabagon ranked second. Zakir Hussain, Susie Ibarra and Trilok Gurtu all were ranked under the “Percussion” category. Congratulations to all! Keep an eye on their music, readers!
Film & Media
Highlights
“Samurai Cinema” is a series of seven classic Japanese Samurai films from masters of the genre: Kurosawa, Okamoto and Kobayashi. Mondays from Sept. 9 – Oct. 21. All screenings once at 7pm. The series kicks off with Akira Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai” on Sept. 9 with a breakthrough performance by a young Toshiro Mifune as a young over-excited samurai whose bravado attitude is simply a shield to hide his peasant origins. Takashi Shimura shines as the patient leader who must put together a samurai group to protect desperate villagers from marauding bandits. Masaki Kobayashi’s “Harakiri” is set for Sept. 16th. The brilliant actor Tatsuya Nakadai plays a masterless samurai that begs a Lord to be allowed to commit suicide on his property for reasons that are gradually revealed. Nakadai burrows deeply into the psychological make-up of every character he portrays and this film is a shining example. “Kill!” by Kihachi Okamoto is on Sept. 23rd and stars Tatsuya Nakadai again. The story is a black comedy about two samurai who arrive in a desolate town only to get involved in a clan dispute. Set for Sept. 30th is Akira Kurosawa’s “Yojimbo”. Here a desperate yet shrewd samurai must find a way to survive by undermining two rival gangs who terrorize a village and save himself and its’ self-motivated citizens. Kurosawa was a master of using great character actors in bit parts that make his side cast appear to be a powerful chorus in response to the lead actors. This film is far from dour with slices of dark humor popping up amidst all the mayhem and swordfights. For tickets, email boxoffice@siff.net.
Acclaimed Hong Kong director Wong Kar-wai traveled all over China and talked to over 100 Kung Fu masters as part of the research for his new film on Chinese martial arts legend Ip Man who was Bruce Lee’s teacher. This film “The Grandmaster” stars Tony Leung and Ziyi Zhang. It took several years to complete as Leung who plays the lead role broke his arm twice trying to re-enact fight scenes. Now screening at various theatres in the Seattle area.
The Japanese Cultural & Community Center presents a Japanese film series entitled “Matinee Eiga” every Sunday at 2pm. “Doppelganger” screens on Sept. 8th. The animated feature, “Summer Wars” screens on Sept. 15th. $5 for non-members and $3 for JCCCW members. 1414 S. Weller St. (206) 568-7114 or go to www.jcccw.org. Call (425) 369-1012 for details.
Seattle-raised photographer/filmmaker Emily Momohara is working on a new documentary film on longtime Seattle resident May Namba chronicling her life in local history. For information, go to www.ehmomohara.com.
During the day Rene Duignan works as an economist for the European Union delegation in Tokyo. But the alarming suicide rates in Japan concerned him. In his spare time he self-funded a documentary film entitled “Saving 10,000 – Winning a War on Suicide in Japan” made with collaborator Marc-Antoine Astier. When he’s not working his day job, he tries to screen the film for free in as many places in Japan as he can, giving away DVD copies as he goes. It’s all in an effort to curb the country’s suicide rate. Whether it’s due to the film’s exposure or not, suicide rates did go down in 2012. Now he has made the unusual decision to literally give the film away to anyone who wants to see it. It’s now online at www.saving10000.com. Though reasons for suicide are complex and various, Duignan hopes that the movie will be found “by people who want to see it and need to see it the most.”
The Written Arts
Highlights
Seattle poet Shin Yu Pai has a new book of poetry out entitled (Alameda Press) which documents her years working in Texas and Arkansas. Since Asian Americans are a distinct minority in the South, her poems reflect that experience and a longing for place that stretches beyond boundaries. The book features over a dozen photographs by the author as well reminding us of her dual interests in art and the word. Pai reads from the book on Sept. 4 at 7pm at Hugo House. The book’s cover artist & singer/songwriter Whiting Tennis plays an acoustic set to open. Pai reads again on Dec. 5 at the Wing. Both events are free. The book is available at local stores or by mail order from the publisher or Small Press Distribution.
Elliott Bay Book Company sponsors and co-presents fascinating readings by authors in venues across the city and in their own bookstore as well. Events take place at the bookstore unless otherwise noted. YES! Magazine presents internationally known biodiversity and global-justice activist and author Vandana Shiva who will speak on “The Future of Food”. YES! board members and publisher will join Shiva on stage for the program. Set for Thurs., Sept. 12th at 7:30pm at Town Hall Seattle at 1119 – 8th Ave. at Seneca. Go to www.yesmagazine.org for details on this event. Sudhir Venkatesch reads from “Floating City: A Rogue Lost And Found in New York’s Underground Economy” (Penguin Books) on Sept. 19th at 7pm. PhotojournalistTeresa Tamura, author of “Minidoka: An American Concentration Camp” (Caxton Press/ University of Nebraska) which details the story of survivors who were uprooted from the West Coast to War Relocation Centers will give a presentation on Sat. Sept. 28 at 1pm at Seattle Public Central Library’s Microsoft Auditorium. Joining her will be noted Seattle poet/educator Larry Matsuda (“Cold Wind from Idaho”) and feminist activist/writer Mitsuye Yamada (“Camp Notes” & “Desert Run”). 1000 Fourth Ave. For more details on this event, go to www.spl.org or call co-sponsor, Elliott Bay Book Company at (206) 624-6600. In an event co-presented with the Gardner Center For Asian Art & Ideas, novelist, poet, essayist and musician Amit Chaudhuri comes to Seattle to read from “Calcutta: Two Years in the City” (Knopf) on Mon., Sept. 30 at 7pm at Stimson Auditorium in the Seattle Asian Art Museum at 1400 E. Prospect in Volunteer Park. Free. Go to www.seattleartmuseum.org/gardnercenter for details. Noted fiction writer Jhumpa Lahiri reads from her latest book entitled “The Lowland” (Knopf) on Oct. 10th at Townhall Seattle in a reading co-sponsored by Seattle Public Library. On Nov. 7th, noted California peach farmer /author David Mas Masumoto reads with Nikiko Masumoto from a new book entitled “Perfect Peach” (Ten Speed Books). Cookbook recipes and a performance are part of the event. The Elliott Bay Book Company is at 1521 Tenth Avenue in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. (206) 624-6600 or visit www.elliottbaybook.com.
“Minidoka: An American Concentration Camp” is a new book by Teresa Tamura on Caxton Press. This is where many Japanese Americans from the Northwest were interned during WW II. Tamura reads from her book on Sat., Sept. 21 at 4pm at the Wing. Free. 719 South King St. (206) 623-5124 or visit www.wingluke.org
Julie Wu’s debut novel entitled “The Third Son” (Algonquin Books) tells the love story of her parents. Set in embattled midcentury Japanese-occupied Taiwan and transported to a search for freedom in the U.S., this immigrant tale rings true.
“Barn Cat” (Gemma Open Door) by Kyoko Mori is a slim young adult novel that tells the story of a young girl who leaves Tokyo with her mother to a new home, a new father and sister on a dairy farm in Wisconsin. Thirty years later, the mother leaves without as much as a note. The latest book by the award-winning author of “Shizuko’s Daughter”.
“Enigma of China” (Minotaur Books) is the latest installment in the popular “Inspector Chen” series by Qiu Xiaolong and continues the perilous journey of being an ethical cop in a police state. When he’s brought in to sign off on a suicide case of a major party member, his investigation shows that the facts don’t add up.
For those of you studying foreign languages, Penguin books has updated their “Parallel Text” series with new volumes of short stories in Chinese and Japanese. “New Parallel Text Short Stories In Chinese edited by John Balcom and “New Penguin Parallel Text Short Stories In Japanese” edited by Michael Emmerich have choice, timely selections with some new translations included as well.
Kaya Books is at it again. Just as they unearthed an early historical Japanese American novel last year, they’ve done the same this year with “The Hanging On Union Square”, an experimental “stream-of-consciousness” novel of leftist politics in Depression-era New York by H.T. Hsiang .
“Almost Home – The Asian Search of a Geographic Trollop” (ThingsAsian Press) is the second book of travel essays by Janet Brown (an Examiner contributor) that comes on the heels of her popular first book. Again, she serves up the observations of a foreigner living in another land. A book laced with wit, humor , wisdom and all too mindful of our common human condition.
“Everything I Never Told You” is a new work of fiction by Celeste Ng due out early next year on Penguin Books.
“New Cathy – Contemporary Chinese Poetry” (Tupelo Press) is a new anthology edited by Ming Di that takes us past the “Misty” school of poets into the present.
“Light And Heavy Things” (Boa Editions) is a new translation of a contemporary Pakistani poet, the late Zeeshan Sahil as translated by Faisal Siddiqui, Christopher Kennedy, and Mi Ditmar. In these poems, there is a purity and innocence offset by the weary worldliness of a country shattered by constant conflict.
The widely acclaimed novel, “The Zenith” (Penguin) by Duong Thu Huong that looks at the toll a communist revolution took on the individual lives of people in Vietnam is just out in a new paperback edition.
“In The Shadow Of The Banyan” by Vaddey Ratner was critically acclaimed when it first came out last year. It marked the debut of this Cambodian American writer who wrote of the aftermath of the “killing fields” and how it tore apart families. Her story is a testimony of the survival of the human spirit. The book is now available in a new paperback edition on Simon & Schuster.
News/Opportunities
Come to the “Green City Pix Space Needle Mix” with dj’s for dancing and custom-made dresses by Kiymbah on display. All attendees get a chance to win a free photo shoot. Green City Pix is a new photography studio business co-owned by writer and Examiner contributor Soyon Im. This event is a party to celebrate the launch of their new business and all are invited. Sat., Sept. 7 from 7pm – 2am. Roof deck of the Alto Apts. At 311 Cedar St. Go to http://greencitypix.com for details.
“EXPOSED: JAPANTOWN 2013 – The International Districts Longest Running Photo Contest” issues a call to all photographers. Sponsors are looking for images that best capture the re-emerging Japantown or “Nihonmachi” centered at 6th Ave. S. and S. Main St. Categories include food, culture, spaces & places and shops. Deadline is Oct. 31, 2013. Open to all ages and skill levels. All photos will be exhibited in the International District in December, 2013. Winners work will be on view at the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival in April 2014. For entry rules, go to EXPOSEDphotocontest.com.
Aki Con, the annual fall convention for fans of anime, manga and other Japanese cultural phenomena holds court at the Doubletree Hotel in Seattle Oct. 25 – 27th. Go to www.akicon.org.
Seattle Chinese Community Girls Drill Team presents “Oodles of Noodles & Chinese Dance Show”. This fundraising event for the organization takes place Sept. 15th at 1pm. Chong Wa Hall at 522 – 7th Ave. S.
“Affordable Healthcare and New Options for Artists” is an important informational workshop for artists who worry about healthcare. Oct. 14 at 6pm. Seattle City Hall’s Bertha Knight Landes Room. Go to www.artisttrust.org to find out more.
EMP Museum presents the 13th Annual “Sound Off!”, a Northwest battle of the bands for those 21 or under. To apply, go to empmuseum.org/soundoff by Nov. 4, 2013. Win recording time, gear, radio airplay, festival performances and more.
Applications for 2014 Jack Straw Residencies are now available and deadline is Monday, Nov. 4th. Residencies available in the following programs – Jack Straw Writers, Artist Support and New Media Gallery. Artists may apply to one program a year. For complete details, go to www.jackstraw.org.
4Culture is seeking site-specific proposals from King County-based artists, individuals and organizations. Site-specific projects explore creative partnerships with one or more King County historic sites, resulting in public presentations or installation in 2014. For a list of sites, go to sitespecificarts.org. Deadline is Oct. 9th.