Japanese Art Fair Nov. 17

The Japanese Student Association invites students to participate in the Japanese Art Fair on Thursday, Nov. 17, at Holcombe Hall from 7 to 8 p.m.

The Japanese Student Association invites students to participate in the Japanese Art Fair from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at Holcombe Hall. Students will have the opportunity to engage in activities of folding origami, painting and making Japanese-inspired clay models, as well as experiencing calligraphy, in which JSA offers writing students' names, desired kanji or paintings for students to take home. There will also be free water and tea at the event.

Art in Japan has long been an important part of Japanese culture, particularly painting, calligraphy, origami and ceramics. As the Japanese separated themselves from China in the 9th century they developed newer, different ways to express themselves. The works up until the 15th century were largely religious, but the period after the Onin War (1467-1477) involved Japan in more political and economic affairs, switching their focus in their art away from religion. Similarly, as Western influence began to emerge in Japan in the Meiji period from 1862 to 1912, the art forms within that time reflected the same influence. 

Although there were many art forms, the use of brushes in particular was popular and practiced by many, as it was not only used for painting but for writing, too. Some ideas that were often depicted in Japanese paintings were associated with religion such as Buddhism, the daily lives of Japanese people, themes from classical Japanese literature, landscapes and important social concepts in Japan during the time. More information on Japanese art is available on Wikipedia. 

Art was also important among Japanese-Americans, especially in their times during internment camps in Arkansas. There were often paintings of landscapes of those reminiscing Japan and birds or the camps at night as a symbol of freedom for the interns. There were also many small bird sculptures found in the internment camps, as well as items that indicated the Japanese-Americans often spent their time engaging in art forms such as dance, sculpture-making and painting. More information about times in the internment camps in Arkansas can be found on the Central Arkansas Library System. 

In light of the many exciting art forms associated with Japanese culture, JSA looks forward to sharing this cultural experience with students. This event is supported by the Student Activities Fee and funded by the Associated Student Government and is free to attend to all currently-enrolled students of the University of Arkansas. For more information, questions about the event, or for accommodations due to disability, please contact Ryotaro Hiraki, rhiraki@uark.edu, see the JSA Instagram page, or call 479-575-5255.