Japanese Kimono April 24, 2007

Japanese Kimono
Tues., April 24 and Tues., May 15; 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Kimono patterned with golden threads will surround you in the Gallery of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel at this talk and private viewing of the 2007 National Cherry Blossom Festival kimono exhibition. These garments, which the Japanese wore most often before Japan opened to Western culture in the 19th century, are encoded with symbolism and cultural significance that reach back over a millennium. The correct “wearing of “kimono” is a highly sophisticated art form. Participants are introduced to the choices one makes when putting on a kimono and the messages the wearer sends with these choices.
Ann Marie Moeller and Paul MacLardy, co-authors of the forthcoming book Reading Kimono: Symbols and Motifs of Japanese Textiles, discuss the erudition and technical skill displayed by the artisans who create kimonos and the complexity of the messages the Japanese can discern when they are worn. Following the talk, enjoy a private tour of the exhibition.

Location: Meeting in the Gallery of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel,
1330 Maryland Ave, SW. Parking available.
Tickets: Resident Associates $24; Gen. Admission $32
Both programs are the same, register for only one. This program is limited to 30 participants. Please Call (202) 357-3030 for more information

Official Website: http://www.residentassociates.org