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Art Talk -Japanese Aesthetics
February 5 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
JAPANESE AESTHETICS
Exploring Japan’s Artistic Sensibilities
Rossmoorart Art Talk
Peacock Hall/Theatre
What makes Japanese art so unique? What is the Japanese Aesthetic?
Gold screens, woodblock prints, elegant kimono, intricate netsukes – art forms that are iconically Japanese. But there is so much more to Japanese art, which goes back over seven thousand years. Art, in its myriad forms, illustrates the historical, cultural and religious context that exemplifies Japanese sensibilities.
For the Japanese the functionality of an object was not enough; it also had to be aesthetically pleasing. The art displayed the skill of the artisan, the taste of the patron, and the values of the culture. A Samurai’s sword had to be not only sharp but it also beautifully made, with an elegant sheath. Screens were not just room dividers; they served to set the tone of a room, and were frequently used to illustrate family lineage and importance. Woodblock prints made art available and affordable to all, underscoring the Japanese love of beauty. The concept of “mah” or empty space permeates Japanese art and contributes to its minimalistic elements.
Join Dr. Mary Mead, a Docent at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, in exploring the variety, complexity, and beauty of Japanese art. Luxuriate in this fascinating program which highlights some of the exquisite objects from the Asian’s Japanese collection.
Mary Mead was born and raised in Japan, which instilled in her a love of the Far East – its diverse cultures, arts, and religions. After a start as a high school teacher she spent 20 years in the telecommunications business, and then returned to teaching, this time at the university level. She taught world and comparative religions classes at various colleges and universities before retiring.
Mary holds a PhD and five Masters Degrees. She has been a docent at the Asian Art Museum for over ten years, and is currently Chair of the Docent Council. She has also been Chair of the Members Evaluation Committee, and Chair of the Community Speakers Program.