WHO/WHAT/WHEN: As part of the Hawai‘i Japanese Center’s special Japan Foundation exhibition, “Handcrafted Form: Traditions and Techniques,” Honolulu-based artist and designer Ann Asakura will present two programs focusing on Japanese textiles. Asakura is co-founder and executive director of TEMARI, Center for Asian and Pacific Arts.
The first program is a two-day workshop entitled, “New Wave Kimono,” on Saturday, June 20, from 9 a.m. to noon, and Sunday, June 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration fee is $90. Call the HJC for specific materials and equipment required. A potluck will follow the Sunday workshop.
Students will learn how to restyle traditional Japanese kimono into Western-style clothing. Basic hand and machine sewing skills are required to take this class.
The second program is a free public talk entitled, “Japanese Textiles: See. Touch. Smell” on Saturday, June 20, at 1 p.m. This illustrated lecture/show-and-tell, is a brief introduction to Japanese fabrics — its weaving, dyeing and surface decoration techniques and the cultural significance of objects made from these fabrics.
WHERE: The Hawaii Japanese Center is located at 751 Kanoelehua Ave. For more information, email the Hawaii Japanese Center at contact@hawaiijapanesecenter.com or call (808) 934-9611. Admission to the gallery is free. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.