SPOTLIGHT ON: KIMONO CULTURE
WHAT’S UP?
Kimono Culture: The Beauty of Japanese Culture Viewed Through the Lens of Kimono is an ongoing exhibition at the Nikkei National Museum, running until Sept. 3.
WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT?
The exhibit explores the beauty of Japanese culture through the lens of kimono - the traditional Japanese garb that has become ubiquitous inspiration for Western fashion.
“In Japan, it is steeped in culture which is deeply rooted in the core esthetic sense of Japanese life,” a press release notes.
The exhibition is curated by Hitomi Harama, a Victoria resident who comes from a family of kimono artisans and collectors form Japan.
“Exhibit highlights will illuminate the philosophy of kimono: in harmony with nature, coordination with different climate and season, attention to detail,” the release explains.
Visitors can also learn about the art of kimono: its craft and design, its dyeing and weaving techniques and patterns, its design motifs, plus its ecological aspects – the structure of kimono and the use of textile materials.
WHERE AND WHEN?
The exhibition is underway at Nikkei National Museum, 6688 Southoaks Cres. It continues until Sept. 20, and there are number of other special events along the way.
There’s a kimono history talk on June 24 at 2 p.m.; a shibori (pleat and bind) dying workshop on July 23 at 2 p.m.; a kogin zashi (Japanese embroidery) workshop on Aug. 19 at 2 p.m.; and an osaikumono (small kimono fabric craft) workshop on Aug. 26 at 1:30 p.m.
TELL ME MORE
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is by donation. See www.nikkeiplace.org for more details.
