News and Events: Summer 09 by Asia Society

Asia Society News and Events • SUMMER 2009

Asian Journeys

AsiaSociety.org

ARTS • BUSINESS • CULTURE • EDUCATION • POLICY

Letter from the President

JACK DEUTSCH

n times of ongoing global economic uncertainty, certain truths remain constant. Asia’s rise in the 21st century continues to drive Asia Society as we reaffirm our leadership position engaging Asians and Americans. Our task forces address the greatest challenges facing Asia and U.S.-Asia relations and influence key decision-makers around the world. Reinforcing the institution’s high profile, our longtime collaborators are being tapped to serve in the Obama administration: our former Chairman Richard Holbrooke was named Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan and our former U.S.-China Task Force Chair Stephen Chu is Secretary of Energy.

We were thrilled that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton chose Asia Society as the platform for her ﬁrst major policy address prior to her historic trip to Asia. Her speech, covered extensively in media outlets throughout the world, was made just as Asia Society Museum opened its exhibition Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America. Fittingly, Secretary Clinton was able to view our own beloved sculpture of Ganesha, a benevolent deity symbolizing safe passage on journeys. Asia Society’s leadership endeavors also extend to the Asian American community. In June, the Society is organizing its ﬁrst Diversity Leadership Forum, looking at major corporations’ efforts to maximize and unleash the leadership power of their Asian employees. Building on our leadership position in the arts, Asia Society is partnering with Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), New York University (NYU) Center for Dialogues and other leading cultural institutions throughout the city to present a citywide festival celebrating artistic diversity in the Muslim world. Asia Society continues to blaze new trails with our education work, such as our recently launched afterschool initiative promoting international learning in U.S. schools and through our Goldman Sachs Foundation youth prizes, which recognize American high school students for projects addressing shared challenges in today’s globalized world. In these times, we hope you will continue to turn to Asia Society for informed and engaging dialogue that helps bring understanding, shared perspectives and added richness to our world and to our daily lives.

Vishakha N. Desai President

Preparing Asians and Americans for a Shared Future Asia Society news and Events SUMMER 2009 ASIA SOCIETY is the leading global and pan-Asian organization working to strengthen relationships and promote understanding among the people, leaders and institutions of Asia and the United States.

Founded in 1956, Asia Society is a nonpartisan, nonproﬁt educational institution with ofﬁces in Hong Kong, Houston, Los Angeles, Manila, Melbourne, Mumbai, New York, San Francisco, Seoul, Shanghai, and Washington, D.C.

We seek to increase knowledge and enhance dialogue, encourage creative expression, and generate new ideas across the ﬁelds of policy, business, education, arts and culture.

The views of program participants, exhibition artists, and institutional fellows do not necessarily represent the views of the institution, our members or supporters.

Generous support for this publication has been provided by Harold J. and Ruth Newman. Asia Society and Leogryph marks are trademarks of the Asia Society, registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

ecognizing the unique power of cultural exchange to create new perspectives and connections between peoples locally and globally, Asia Society is partnering with Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and New York University Center for Dialogues to present Muslim Voices: Art & Ideas. Held June 5–14, this unprecedented citywide festival and conference celebrates the diversity of artistic expression in the Muslim world through music, theatre, visual art, film, lectures and poetry/spoken word. More than 100 artists and speakers will participate in programs ranging from the traditional (calligraphy, storytelling and Sufi devotional voices) to the contemporary (video installations and Arabic hip-hop). A two-day academic and policy conference considers how the rich artistic expressions of Muslim societies might reinvigorate relations between the United States and the Muslim world. According to Asia Society’s Director of Cultural Programs Rachel Cooper, “Most people don’t realize that more Muslims live in Asia than in the Middle East. We aim through this festival and conference to share both the great diversity and shared roots of Muslim cultures. Our presentations range from devotional, to classical high art, to folk and popular expression, and reflect both century old tales and contemporary perspectives.” Highlights at Asia Society include: the exhibition Sight Unseen: Video from Afghanistan and Iran showcasing works by Rahraw Omarzad and Seifollah Samadian; Diponegoro, a dance theater work by Indonesian director/choreographer Sardono Kusumo; an evening with Naseeruddin Shah performing Dastangoi, a

Abhinandita Mathur

Asia Society, BAM and NYU Center for Dialogues Connect Cultures through Muslim Voices Festival

Jack Vartoogian/FrontRowPhotos

News

form of animated Indian storytelling dating back to medieval Persia, depicting The Adventures of Amir Hamza; performances by renowned Iranian singer Parissa invoking the words of the poet Rumi; and a Chaikhana/teahouse evening salon featuring storytelling in the form of recited or sung poetry. The festival opens at BAM with a performance by world renowned singer Youssou N’Dour of Senegal. Additional presentations will take place at locations including: Austrian Cultural Forum New York, Brooklyn Museum, MoCADA (Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts), The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The New York Public Library. For more info, visit MuslimVoicesFestival.org. ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

Secretary Of State Hillary Clinton Calls for Stronger U.S.-Asian Engagement in First Major Policy Address, Given at Asia Society

Elsa Ruiz

Top: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivers her first major policy address at Asia Society, February 13, 2009. Bottom: Ambassador Richard Holbrooke is honored for his service as Asia Society Chairman at a special dinner, March 27, 2009

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t a time when Asia’s importance is growing and the Obama administration is pursuing a newly expanded agenda in the region, Asia Society is playing an important role and our collaborators are being tapped for their expertise: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton chose Asia Society as the venue for her first major policy address, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke stepped down as Asia Society Board Chairman when he was appointed U.S. Special Representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan and our Energy and Climate Task Force Co-Chair Stephen Chu is Secretary of Energy. The Obama administration’s focus on strengthening ties and increasing dialogue with Asia was outlined by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in her historic speech at Asia Society in February. “It is in our interest to work harder to build on areas of common concern and shared opportunities,” said Clinton. “Even with our differences, the United States will remain committed to pursuing a positive relationship with China, one that is essential to America’s peace, progress and prosperity.” Secretary Clinton said she will “press the case” for greater energy efficiency and clean energy, stating that climate change also has implications on global health care and the economy. The speech was made on the eve of her four-nation tour of Asia with visits to Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and China.

Asia Society Fosters Leadership through Networking, Conferences and Hands-On Workshops

Elsa Ruiz

sia Society brings together the foremost Asian and American leaders to take on shared global challenges through a range of innovative and far-reaching conferences, workshops and networking groups. The Corporate Diversity Council—made up of Chief Diversity Officers from Global 500 companies—identifies and shares best practices that help corporations manage and develop their multicultural personnel. Corporate members leverage the combined knowledge and cultural experience of their employees to build bridges into national and international Asian markets. On June 1, at the inaugural Asia Society Diversity Leadership Forum, participants will identify, through hands-on workshops, innovative ways for Asian Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to address and counter the effects of the current economic downturn. The daylong event, titled “Empowered Asian Employees: Global Business Growth Through Leadership Development” is expected to draw ERG members and other corporate leaders from a cross-section of industries and sectors. Also in June, an Atlanta-based international business conference focuses on leveraging infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics and IT innovation for economic growth in world-class hub cities. A comparative focus on key cities in Asia, the U.S., the Middle East and Latin America will highlight best practices and explore challenges and opportunities ahead. A new initiative focusing on Asian women leaders is designed to nurture the next generation of women leaders in the public and private sectors. The Asia-Pacific Women Leadership Initiative develops and promotes a community of senior women leaders from throughout the region and also fosters a network that will help to prepare the next generation of Asian women. The Society is also actively working to nurture and inspire the next generation of Asian and Asian American leaders. The Asia 21 Young Leaders Initiative brings together some of the foremost innovators under 40 from across the Asia-Pacific region to explore creative ways to address the critical issues facing the region. The group convened most recently in the Philippines in March.

Corporate Diversity Council Meeting, Council Member John Zhang, Corning, Inc.

Water Security Leadership Group Presents Findings in Istanbul, Dubai

sia Society’s Leadership Group on Water Security presented its findings and recommendations at key venues including the 5th World Water Forum. Held in Istanbul, Turkey, the Forum is the preeminent gathering of representatives from governments, NGOs and the private sector aimed at forging solutions to address the emerging global water crisis. Findings were also shared with policy makers and water security experts at the Dubai School of Government and the Gulf Research Center in Dubai, UAE. To read the report and find out more visit AsiaSociety.org/water

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

In Focus: Ganesha Jacqueline Ganem, Asia Society Museum Getty Fellow

sia Society’s exhibition Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America examines John D. Rockefeller 3rd and his wife Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller’s travels and collecting habits in post-World War II Asia. The exhibition includes an in-depth analysis of an eighth-century sandstone sculpture of Ganesha acquired by the Rockefellers in the early 1970s and now in the Society’s collection. Ganesha—who has just returned from conservation work after having long been on permanent display in Asia Society’s New York lobby—aptly exemplifies the Rockefellers’ mission and enduring legacy to further relations between the United States and Asia through cultural diplomacy.

Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America is on view through August 9, 2009. To learn more about the exhibition, visit AsiaSociety.org/asianjourneys

The type of sweets that Ganesha holds in a bowl are frequently used as offerings in ritual observances, known as puja. Pujas serve to honor and enliven the image, turning an inanimate sandstone carving into a living presence.

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From Ganesha’s origins as a fertility deity, he was appropriated into the Hindu pantheon as the son of Shiva and the isha (lord) of the ganas (hosts of spirits). The format and large scale of this Ganesha sculpture indicate its function in the temple traditions of the north-central Indian subcontinent during the eighth century. It was customary to place images of Ganesha like this one in the central niche of the external south wall of a temple dedicated to Shiva. This placement made Ganesha the first image that observers encountered along their ritual walk, or circumambulation, around the temple. Accordingly, new undertakings—particularly challenging journeys—traditionally begin with an invocation to Ganesha to ensure success.

The most defining attribute of Ganesha is his elephant head. This type of composite human-animal imagery abounds in South Asian religious traditions and signifies manifestations of divine unity. The domesticated elephant was also a paradigm of massive strength controlled and was used by ruling parties to great ceremonial fanfare.

Ganesha. India, Uttar Pradesh. 8th century. Sandstone. H. 49 1/2 in. (125.7 cm). Asia Society, New York: Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, 1979.13. Photo: Asia Society Museum

Many Journeys Daisy Yiyou Wang, Asia Society Museum Getty Fellow

any artworks have been world travelers, and on their journeys, have served as vital agents for cross-cultural exchange. This is certainly true of the exquisite objects on view in Asia Society’s current exhibition Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America. The porcelain bowl pictured here from Asia Society’s Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection exemplifies the blueand-white wares produced during China’s Ming period (1368– 1644). The impressive size (with a diameter of over thirteenth inches) and elegant decoration of the bowl evidence the high production quality achieved by Ming potters. The painted motif of auspicious fruits and flowers on both the interior and exterior creates a balanced and fluid design. From the fourteenth century onward, blue-and-white wares from China were revered as rare and luxurious items and spread to all corners of the globe through trade. This bowl’s journey in the twentieth century reflects the changing political conditions in the world. Prior to 1954, the bowl was owned by Jean-Pierre Dubosc, a renowned French scholar, collector and dealer of Chinese art, who had served as a diplomat in China during the 1930s and 1940s. Upon his return from China, Dubosc introduced many objects to private collectors and museums in Europe and the United States. The bowl was displayed in a 1949 exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and again in 1954 at the Palazzo Ducale in Venice. Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd acquired the bowl from New York art dealer J. T. Tai in 1962. This transaction

reflected a major shift in the collecting of Chinese art in America. In 1951, after the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, trade between the United States and China ceased for a period of twenty years. During this period, western collectors were no longer able to purchase art directly from China. They had to rely on dealers and auction houses to secure objects that were already outside of the country. Facing an uncertain future, many prominent art collectors and dealers in China left the country. Tai, who was previously based in Shanghai, moved to New York where he established an antique firm. Upon entering the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, this blue-and-white Ming bowl began a new journey. According to the Rockefellers and their advisor Sherman E. Lee, theirs was a collection built to enhance understanding and cooperation between Asia and America. Exhibitions of this collection at Asia Society, such as the current Asian Journeys exhibition, have provided ideal stages for these cultural exchanges. The photograph at left shows John D. Rockefeller 3rd with then Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Adam Malik, admiring the Ming period bowl on display at Asia Society in 1970. Today, as ties between Asia and the United States deepen in the twenty-first century, the journeys of these artworks as cultural ambassadors continue and are more important than ever.

Bowl. China, Jiangxi Province. Ming period (1368–1644), early 15th century (probably Xuande era, 1426–1435). Porcelain painted with underglaze cobalt blue (Jingdezhen ware). H. 5 3/8 x Diam. 13 3/8 in. (14.3 x 34 cm). Asia Society, New York: Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, 1979.169. Photo: Asia Society Museum John D. Rockefeller 3rd and Adam Malik, Foreign Minister of Indonesia, preview the exhibition “Asian Art: Selections from the Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd” at Asia Society, 1970. Photo: Asia Society Museum, New York

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

Education News

Youth Leaders on Global Issues

n 2006, Goldman Sachs Foundation and Asia Society created the Youth Prizes for Excellence in International Education to recognize high school students who demonstrate an in-depth understanding of key issues in international affairs. In the 2008 competition, through videos and written essays, teens from every state, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico tackled a wide range of global issues, including the environment, peace and conflict, poverty, education, health care, and more. For example, Robert Ostrowski from Atlanta, Georgia wrote an essay exploring energy efficiency in China and the United States. Robert says, “China and the U.S. are the two largest emitters of greenhouse gases. Both nations have focused predominantly on leveraging innovative supply options to solve the emissions problem, such as carbon capture and sequestration, a nuclear ‘renaissance,’ and renewable energy. In my essay, I argued that it is vital for the U.S. and China to work together to jointly commit to major improvements in demand-side energy efficiency of appliances, buildings, and industries. Our two nations have much to learn from each other, and the rest of the world is looking towards both nations for leadership.” Sarah Miller from Westlake Village, California created a video which included footage she shot while in Nepal. On 6

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traveling abroad she says, “I’d never left the U.S. until I went to Nepal. And, at first I felt afraid. It was so different. Soon I was totally comfortable being there, with the people, the customs… and when I returned, I had a whole new appreciation for my country.” Sarah strongly believes that “every teen should visit another country.”

Above, from left to right: Stephanie Bell-Rose, President of The Goldman Sachs Foundation; Shaunak Kishore; Imani Franklin; Zane Scheuerlein; Sarah Miller; Robert Ostrowski; and Vivien Stewart, Vice President of Education, Asia Society

Expanding Horizons: Building Global Literacy in Afterschool Programs

n order to become successful in a global age, students from all backgrounds will need an array of educational opportunities to become globally literate – both during the school day and beyond. Afterschool, before-school, and summer programs, which serve 6.5 million children, can play a vital role in expanding kids’ horizons—opening doors from their neighborhoods to the world. To meet this need, with support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Asia Society created Expanding Horizons: Building Global Literacy in Afterschool Programs, a guidebook and DVD with strategies and resources to help afterschool

programs integrate global literacy. The guide is based on more than 100 interviews with leaders in afterschool and international education, a review of relevant materials, and visits to afterschool programs in several cities. CNN journalist Soledad O’Brien narrates the companion video on the importance of global learning and the unique role afterschool programs can play. “In these changing times, it’s so important that we harness the power of afterschool and summer programs to bring the world to our children—and provide them with the skills they need to succeed,” said Ms. O’Brien.

Creative Voices of Youth

edia and technology tools can be powerful ways to build bridges of understanding among youth worldwide. The Creative Voices of Islam project, supported by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, fosters an increased understanding of the diversity of Muslim voices within the multicultural societies of Asia. As part of this project, high schools in Asia Society’s International Studies Schools Network

in the U.S. connect electronically with schools in Muslim countries in Asia. Started in the fall of 2008, students in five schools in the U.S. and Indonesia are creating digital audio slideshows about their communities’ history, cultures, and traditions, which they exchange and discuss on Asia Society’s website. Over the next two years, the project will expand to include additional schools in the U.S. and Asia. ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

Asia Society Associate Fellow and FEER contributor Simone Ahuja discusses why Slumdog Millionaire is so controversial in India on Asia Society’s podcast The Weekly Fix. February 24, 2009:

“

Barbara Nelson

Asia Society

courtesy of simone ahuja

Heard @ Asia Society Around the World

India has been trying to position itself as an international tourism and business center and has been very effective in doing that over the last several years. But the media, particularly western media, propagates old school, antiquated images of India that aren’t reflective of the growth and change occurring here... one has to consider why many of the very successful films [internationally] that are shot in India, like City of Joy for example, are the ones that showcase wretchedness and poverty in India—some call it ‘poverty porn.’

”

New Bernard Schwartz Book Prize to Honor Non-Fiction Books on Asia

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Morgan Stanley Asia Chairman, Stephen Roach, discusses how it would be a mistake for the U.S. to impose trade sanctions on China. Hong Kong, January 15, 2009: labor shares [are] at a record “ America low, stagnant inflation [is] adjusted to real wages in an era of rising productivity growth. That is not supposed to happen and it did, and so labor wants its fair share and the risk is that Washington, especially the U.S. Congress, believes that one way to attain that fair share is to impose trade sanctions on America’s largest trade deficit nation, China, and that would be an unmitigated disaster and a mistake…this is not economics, it’s not logic, it is emotional politics of a congress with broad bipartisan support.

”

Asia Society is pleased to announce the first annual Bernard Schwartz Book Award. The award will recognize nonfiction books that provide outstanding contributions to the understanding of contemporary Asia or U.S.-Asia relations. A wide ranging jury will select one winner who will receive a $20,000 prize and be honored at a special event in fall 2009.

Founder and CEO of Alibaba Group, China’s largest ecommerce company, Jack Ma urges Americans to re-embrace the entrepreneurial spirit that made America great, and to take action and look for opportunities now. New York, March 12, 2009: will see a new world coming. We have “ We to get used to it. The wonderful yesterday is gone… Forget about that, let’s look at the [future]…I share this value with most people in the company: today is difficult, tomorrow is much more difficult, but the day after tomorrow is beautiful…If you don’t work hard today you will never see the sunshine.

”

Image courtesy of the artist and Silk Road Gallery

Arts & Culture

Seifollah Samadian (born 1954, Iran). The White Station, 1999. Single channel video, sound. 9 minutes

Exhibition

Sight Unseen: Video from Afghanistan and Iran June 9 through September 13 Discover video works by Afghan artist Rahraw Omarzad and Iranian artist Seifollah Samadian, both ardent supporters of artistic independence in their home countries. Although the two works are stylistically different, Sight Unseen reveals these two artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; intense exploration of the human condition. Curated by Miwako Tezuka, Associate Curator, Asia Society. This exhibition is part of Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas. Made possible, in part, with support from the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art.

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS â&#x20AC;˘ summer 2009

Image courtesy of the artist and ShanghART Gallery, Shanghai

Arts & Culture

Yang Fudong (born 1971, Beijing). Seven Intellectuals in a Bamboo Forest, Part V of V, 2007. 35mm black-and-white film transferred to DVD, sound. 29 minutes, 36 seconds. Asia Society, New York: Promised gift of Mr. and Mrs. Hal and Ruth Newman Exhibition

Exhibition

Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America

Yang Fudong: Seven Intellectuals in a Bamboo Forest

Through August 9 Explore the politics and influential relationships that led John D. Rockefeller 3rd and Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller to build a spectacular collection of Asian art. Exceptional pieces from Asia Society’s Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection are presented alongside objects acquired by their advisor, Sherman E. Lee, for the Cleveland Museum of Art. Curated by Adriana Proser, John H. Foster Curator for Traditional Asian Art, Asia Society; with Jacqueline Ganem and Daisy Yiyou Wang, Asia Society Museum Getty Fellows. Related publications available at AsiaStore, AsiaStore.org.

Through September 9 Experience the first U.S. museum presentation of the complete five-part cinematic masterpiece by Shanghai-based artist Yang Fudong. While referencing the Seven Sages, a popular subject in traditional East Asian art, the artist imbues an avant-garde, film noir aesthetic into this mesmerizing black-and-white film. Cocurated by Melissa Chiu, Museum Director and Vice President, Global Visual Art Programs, Asia Society; and Miwako Tezuka, Associate Curator, Asia Society. Related publication available at AsiaStore, AsiaStore.org.

In honor of Sherman E. Lee (1918–2008)

Major support for this exhibition has been provided by Harold and Ruth Newman. Additional support is provided by the Sheryl and Charles R. Kaye Endowment for Contemporary Art Exhibitions and Asia Society’s Contemporary Art Council.

Morgan Stanley is the lead sponsor of this exhibition and its related events. Part of the Morgan Stanley Innovators Series. Additional Funding has been provided by the Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller Fund.

Head of Buddha. India, Mathura. Gupta Period (320–647), 5th century. Red mottled sandstone. H. 12 x W. 6 1/2 in. (30.6 x 16.6 cm). The Cleveland Museum of Art. John L. Severance Fund, 1963.504. Image © The Cleveland Museum of Art

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For Kids and Families

Every BODY has a Story: Movement in Asia Saturday, May 2, 12:00 pm–3:00 pm Fun for the whole family! Through performances and movement workshops, explore how gesture is used to tell stories and describe the world around us. Attend an interactive Balinese dance workshop with members from Gamelan Dharma Swara and participate in a kid-friendly yoga class. And don’t miss Shraddha Nagaraj, a young, talented dancer of Bharata Natyam, who presents a special performance. Free with Gallery Admission. Under 16 Free.

Elsa Ruiz

Coca-Cola Family Day Program Series

Students visit Asia Society Museum with Nancy Blume, Head of Museum Education Programs, Asia Society Exhibition

Inspired by Asia: Works by New York City Students May 5 through May 31 Discover the unique perspective of New York City public school students revealed through works of art based on Asia Society’s fall 2008 exhibitions. The Society, in collaboration with Studio in a School, proudly presents this exhibition of student artworks. Made possible, in part, with support from the Rattray Kimura Foundation and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

Film

Australian Short Film Today Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 pm Catch a rare opportunity to view this year’s newest talent. In this annual event, see award-winning short films and get a taste of what’s to come in the vibrant and irreverent world of Australian cinema. Curated by Susan Talbot. Reception follows. Cosponsored by the American Australian Association and Advance.

Shraddha Nagaraj

$7 members/students with ID/seniors; $11 nonmembers

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • summer 2009

Courtesy of the Artist. Solmaz Shahbazi

Arts & Culture

Solmaz Shahbazi (born 1971). Persepolis, 2005. DVD. 17 minutes, 40 seconds Special Event

Asian Contemporary Art Week: Discussion

Asian Contemporary Art Week Open Portfolios

Conversation: What’s Ahead for Asian Contemporary Art?

Sunday–Monday, May 10–18 at locations throughout New York City Catch NYC’s hottest contemporary art event this May! Now in its sixth year, Asian Contemporary Art Week (ACAW) launches a new series of conversations, screenings and special projects to spotlight the works of established and emerging artists alongside exhibitions at leading museums and galleries across New York City. Get up close and personal with the best of the best in Asian art today! For a complete program agenda and locations, visit acaw.net. ACAW 2009 is organized by Asian Contemporary Art Consortium (ACAC).

Monday, May 11, 6:00 pm In celebration of Asian Contemporary Art week, Asia Society presents a discussion with prominent Asian art figures. Join Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev, documenta 13 Artistic Director, and artist Lee Mingwei in conversation with Melissa Chiu, Asia Society Museum Director, on the future of Asian Art.

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Asian Contemporary Art Week: Screening/Discussion

Tarjama/Translation–New Video Art Sunday, May 17, 3:00 pm Explore the dynamic and complex processes of translation in an increasingly globalized world through a screening and discussion of new video art from renowned artists in the Middle East, Central Asia and its diasporas. In conjunction with ArteEast’s exhibition, Tarjama/Translation, at the Queens Musuem of Art curated by Leeza Ahmady, Iftikhar Dadi and Assistant Curator Reem Fadda. $7 members/students with ID/seniors; $10 nonmembers

Friday–Sunday, June 5–14 At locations across New York City MuslimVoicesFestival.org In celebration of the extraordinary range of artistic expression in the Muslim world, Asia Society, BAM and New York University Center for Dialogues announce the launch of Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas, an unprecedented ten-day festival at locations throughout New York City. More than 100 Muslim artists and speakers from as far away as Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and as near as Brooklyn, will gather for performances, films, exhibitions, talks and other events, ranging from the traditional (calligraphy, storytelling and Sufi chanting) to the contemporary (video installations and Arabic hip-hop). Related items available at AsiaStore, AsiaStore.org.

In celebration of the significance of this city-wide event, the Empire State Building will be lit in all green from June 5–7. The Empire State Building design is a trademark of ESBC and is used with permission.

Citi Series on Asian Arts and Culture: Performance

Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza Sunday–Monday, June 7–8, 7:30 pm Magic, sorcery, warriors and tricksters come together in The Adventures of Amir Hamza, a story following the trials and triumphs of the Prophet Muhammad’s uncle. Eminent actor Naseeruddin Shah, along with Mahmood Farooqi and Daanish Hussain, perfom Dastangoi, a rich form of traditional, dramatized Urdu storytelling that dates back to medieval Persia. Their performance creates a fascinating world through a combination of poetry and acting. In Urdu with English subtitles. $22 members; $30 nonmembers

Abhinandita Mathur

Made possible by Also supported, in part, by Amita and Purnendu Chatterjee.

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

hillary jones

KEVIN LEE / GETTY IMAGES

Arts & Culture

President’s Forum

reading

Reza Aslan in Conversation with Vishakha Desai

Chaikhana/Tea House

Tuesday, June 9, 6:30 pm Acclaimed Iranian-American author Reza Aslan (No God but God and How to Win a Cosmic War) and Asia Society President, Vishakha Desai, discuss Islam today in the context of history, faith, ideology and culture. Both explore historic patterns of interaction between the Muslim world and the United States, and the potential to build new and meaningful relationships, particularly for the next generation. Books available at AsiaStore, AsiaStore.org.

Wednesday, June 10, 7:30 pm Through the ages, the Islamic world’s tea houses, royal courts and drawing rooms have served as popular salons for storytelling in the form of recited or sung poetry. Enjoy an opportunity to hear poems and stories on subjects ranging from social affairs and politics to mysticism and love. $10 members; $15 nonmembers

Supported, in part, by the PARSA Community Foundation.

$10 members;$15 nonmembers

Major suppport for the President’s Forum is provided by the Hazen Polsky Foundation.

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Jack Vartoogian/frontrowphotos jack vartoogian

Performance

Citi Series on Asian Arts and Culture: Performance

Parissa: An Evening of Persian Classical Music

Sardono Dance Theater–Diponegoro

Thursday–Friday, June 11–12, 7:30 pm Free Pre–Performance Lecture: Steve Blum and Ameneh Youssefzadeh June 11–12, 6:00 pm Renowned classical Iranian singer Parissa, accompanied by Iman Vaziri on tar (traditional plucked lute) and Dara Afraz on daf (frame drum), sings the deeply soulful texts of the great poets Rumi and Hafez. Her perfection lies in the simplicity of her interpretation of the 13th century poets’ works. She reaches into the heart to bring the beauty of the poetry alive. Program preceded by an overview of Persian music by ethnomusicologists Steve Blum and Ameneh Youssefzadeh. Free for ticket holders.

Saturday, June 13, 7:30 pm Sunday, June 14, 3:00 pm Free Pre-Performance Lecture Saturday, June 13, 6:00 pm Sunday, June 14, 1:30 pm “An explosive mixture of formal Javanese dance and wild movement” (The New York Times), Diponegoro is a dance theater work depicting the rebellion against Dutch colonial rule led by the Javanese prince and Muslim mystic Diponegoro. Created by renowned Indonesian director/choreographer Sardono Kusumo and featuring a cast of eight Indonesian performers, Diponegoro bridges tradition and contemporary dance to create a work of astounding originality. The production also features live gamelan music. Program preceded by a lecture on Sardono and his artistry. Free for ticket holders. $25 members; $35 nonmembers

Made possible by

$25 members; $35 nonmembers

Supported, in part, by the PARSA Community Foundation.

Supported, in part, by National Endowment for the Arts, Asian Cultural Council, New York State Council in the Arts and Medco Energi.

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

Policy & Business Business Writers Series

Anil Gupta– Getting China and India Right

U.S. Business Conference

Future of World Cities Atlanta, Georgia Monday–Wednesday, June 8–10 Focusing on world-class hub cities as key drivers of Asia-U.S. trade, this conference explores both infrastructure and logistics innovations as indicators of competitive advantage for inter-Asia, global trade and investment. Ranked third in U.S. cities with the most Fortune 500 headquarters, Atlanta provides a platform to examine economic development strategies for sustaining growth and competitiveness and the drive toward greener world cities.

ms...... Late Breaking Asia Society Programs ...... Late Bre Go behind Asia’s latest headlines and fastemerging trends with late breaking Asia Society programs. Get in-depth understanding from policy experts, business leaders and government officials. Reacting quickly to these issues means many programs are not included in this events brochure. Visit AsiaSociety.org for the most upto-date programs and sign up for the Society’s weekly digest.

Monday, May 11, 6:30 pm China and India hold the promise of becoming the world’s new superpowers. As power shifts eastward, these countries are increasingly pivotal to corporate global strategy. But have we fully understood and leveraged these mega markets? What factors will contribute to future investment in these countries? Join co-authors Anil Gupta and Haiyan Wang, and Anil Menon, Vice President of Marketing and Strategy, IBM, in an insightful discussion of China and India’s untapped potential. Book available at AsiaStore, AsiaStore.org. $15 members/students with id/seniors; $30 nonmembers

Citi Series on Asian Business Leaders: Discussion

Innovations in Microfinance: Addressing the Water Needs of the Poor Wednesday, June 3, 12:30 pm Approximately 2.7 billion people have no access to proper sanitation. To combat conditions that lead to sickness and disease, low income families across Asia are seeking clean water and improved sanitation. Sophisticated modern piped water networks are too expensive for most developing countries. Sensing a business opportunity, microfinance organizations are beginning to explore innovative approaches to make water more accessible to the poor. $35 students with ID (meal not included); $50 members; $75 nonmembers

Made possible by

NEWS • EVENTS • CALENDAR

After Hours

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Happy Hour—First Fridays

Diversity Leadership Forum

Asia Circle Cocktail Evening at Asia Society’s Leo Bar

Empowered Asian Employees: Global Business Growth through Leadership and Development

Friday, May 1, 6:00 pm–9:00 pm NYC’s hottest happy hour. Asia Circle, the Society’s young patrons group, invites the public to its cocktail evening. Reunite with friends, network with members, tour the Society’s exhibitions and find out why you should join Asia Circle. Enjoy exhibition tours at 7:15 pm and 7:45 pm. Happy hour prices from 6–7 pm on martinis, bellinis and more! Free admission . Cash bar. No reservations required.

Happy Hour—Second Fridays

Corporate Diversity Networking at Asia Society’s Leo Bar Friday, May 8, 6:00 pm–9:00 pm Cohosted by Asian American Bar Association of New York Add a dash of culture to your networking. Join fellow Asian and Asian American professionals for some art and ambiance. Hosted by Asia Society Corporate Membership. Enjoy exhibition tours at 7:15 pm and 7:45 pm. Happy hour prices from 6–7 pm on martinis, bellinis and more! Free admission . Cash bar. No reservations required.

Monday, June 1, 8:00 am–4:15 pm New York Marriot Marquis 1535 Broadway, Manahattan NYC How can corporations, capitalizing on their Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), unleash the leadership potential of their Asian employees to identify and tap new income potential? Asian ERGs are valuable assets in understanding markets, utilizing resources and generating new business opportunities. This forum covers the challenges, opportunities and best practices employed by ERGs within the U.S. and the development of leadership that is needed to successfully utilize ERGs as vital business partners within a company. Experience an all-day event for established and emerging ERGs with interactive business and leadership development workshops, expert panel discussion and networking. For more info, email diversityforum@asiasociety.org or visit AsiaSociety.org/diversityforum

Asia Society Around the World Hong Kong: Special Event

ART HK 09

Happy Hour—Third Fridays

LGBT Night at Asia Society’s Leo Bar Friday, May 15, 6:00 pm–9:00 pm Asia Society’s networking and cocktails night for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Each event is cohosted by a leading LGBT organization. Enjoy exhibition tours at 7:15 pm and 7:45 pm. Happy hour prices from 6–7 pm on martinis, bellinis and more! Free admission. Cash bar. No reservations required.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Wanchai, Hong Kong Thursday–Sunday, May 14–17, 12:00 pm–8:00 pm Asia Society Hong Kong Center’s model for its planned new building and museum space will be featured at ART HK 09. Asia’s leading art fair will bring together more than 110 of the world’s most celebrated galleries from 25 countries. For more info, visit HongKongArtFair.com.

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

AsiaStore Special Sale Event

Carol Cassidy and Woven Silks of Laos

Thursday–Sunday, April 30–May 3, 11:00 am–6:00 pm, Friday until 9:00 pm Personal Appearance by Carol Cassidy Thursday–Saturday, April 30–May 2, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm AsiaStore presents Carol Cassidy, founder of Lao Textiles. Dedicated to revitalizing the indigenous Laos textile industry and creating magnificent silk weavings, Cassidy preserves traditional techniques while incorporating modern sensibilities. An expansive array of Cassidy’s textiles will be showcased including her ikat collection, signature brocades and jacquard weaves. Her book, Weaving Tradition, will be available for signing.

Special Event

Annual Summer/Designer Sample Sale

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series AsiaStore celebrates Asian American month with personal appearances by featured Asian American designers who will be on hand to showcase expanded assortments of their latest collections of jewelry, textiles and home accents. Join us at AsiaStore to discuss the inspiration that influenced these talented designers and gain unique insight into the creative process. For more info visit AsiaStore.org.

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Sale Event

Sterling Silver Jewelry by Mousumi Shaw Wednesday–Thursday, May 6–7, 11:00 am–6:00 pm Personal Appearance by Mousumi Shaw, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm The Sikara jewelry line is a reflection of Mousumi Shaw’s life as a first generation Indian-American. Her travel and life experiences in over thirty countries are engrained in her sense of style and design. Shaw’s jewelry designs are inspired by architecture, textiles, colors, art and people. Each piece blends her heritage and a new modern spirit.

Tuesday, July 28–Sunday, August 16 11:00 am–6:00 pm Shop AsiaStore’s Summer Sale and enjoy 20%-50% savings on select merchandise including books, cds, accessories, textiles and home accents. Asia Society members receive their 10% discount in addition to the sale prices! Silver Ring by Mousumi Shaw, $85

NEWS • EVENTS • CALENDAR

Silk Ruffle Scarf by Yuh Okano, $140

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Sale Event

Silk Scarves and Shawls by Yuh Okano

Jade Jewelry by Rita Chung

Wednesday–Thursday, May 13–14, 11:00 am–6:00 pm Personal Appearance by Yuh Okano, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm Japanese-born Yuh Okano creates one-of-a-kind fabrics that reflect the delicate patterns and textures found in nature. Each of Yuh Okano’s creations is hand-made from an array of different textiles and thought out in terms of color, material and season to make it beautiful and unique.

Wednesday–Thursday, May 27–28, 11:00 am–6:00 pm Personal Appearance by Rita Chung, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm A connoisseur of costume and fine jewelry, Chinese designer Rita Chung knows how to wear her glittery baubles. It is her belief that these colorful gems bring out one’s energy, while Chinese knots unite the natural elegance. Her multicultural background has combined Eastern and Western influences into designs that range from demure to bold.

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Sale Event

Ceramics by Karen Ford Wednesday–Thursday, May 20–21, 11:00 am–6:00 pm Personal Appearance by Karen Ford, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm Karen Ford’s ceramics enhance the everyday ritual of eating, drinking and living by making it a beautiful, calm and peaceful experience. ChineseAmerican Karen Ford has been drawn to traditional Asian ceramics, porcelain in particular, and strives to harmonize the relationship between form, function and nature.

Jade Bracelet by Rita Chung, $145 Silk Organza Shawl by Yuh Okano, $195

Ceramic Plate by Karen Ford, $200

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • summer SUMMER 2009

Membership

Seniors Members Share Their Appreciation for Asia Society Membership

rom Asia Circle to Friends of Asian Art, to memberships for individuals, students and families, Asia Society has a membership group for everyone. Each group offers its own activities and special events. In spring, the Society welcomes its senior members to a special annual tea event, giving them an opportunity to hear directly from Society staff about upcoming events and initiatives. The seniors also get a guided tour of the Society’s current exhibitions and meet and mingle with other members. Dennis and Nancy Scully, Dual Senior members, share their favorite aspects of their Society memberships.

What are some of your favorite benefits? I love the Asia Society. There’s a wonderful choice of different things from members openings, to policy discussions and CEO forums. It’s such a great resource to have.

Membership is the best way to experience Asia Society and all it has to offer. Benefits include: • Free admission to the Asia Society Museum • I nvitations to members only exhibition preview receptions • Discounts on program tickets • Discounts at AsiaStore and the Garden Court Café Find the membership that works for you at www.AsiaSociety.org.

NEWS • EVENTS • CALENDAR

My wife comes frequently to the cafe and AsiaStore to shop with my daughter while I enjoy the corporate briefings, the movies and policy lectures. There’s just so much to do so if you don’t have your dog with you, you can walk in anytime! I also love family days! I brought my grandson for Family Day and it was wonderful! It was a nice reinforcement for my grandson from the trip we took to China. We also enjoy the Senior Springtime Tea as we get to meet so many people from the neighborhood.

What brings you to Asia Society? There’s a real intimate feel to the Asia Society that keeps us senior members coming back. Unlike other clubs and museums, the Asia Society is not too big, which makes it relaxing for us. Also, the diversity of people one gets to meet here is wonderful. One would never get the opportunity to meet so many different people anywhere else.

Membership Groups Individual ($65)

Contributing ($250)

Dual ($120)

Sustaining ($500)

Senior Citizen / Student / Teacher / Associate ($40)

Asia Circle ($150/$500) (Young patrons group)

New York Patron Groups Learn more about these special groups by calling (212) 327-9395. Friends of Asian Arts ($1,500/$2,500/$5,000/ $10,000) President’s Circle ($1,500/$2,500/$5,000) Chairman’s Circle ($10,000/$25,000 and above)

Inspired by Asia

Exhibitions

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Anil Gupta—Getting China and India Right 6:30 pm

Business Writers Series

What’s Ahead for Asian Conetmporary Art? 6 pm–8 pm

Asian Contemporary Art Week Discussion

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

24 31

Tarjama/Translation New Video Art TIME

Asian Contemporary Art Week Discussion

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Carol Cassidy 11 am-9 pm

Inspired by Asia AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Special Sale: Rita Chung 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

Inspired by Asia AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Special Sale: Rita Chung 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

Asian Journeys 28 Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys 27 Yang Fudong

Special Sale: Karen Ford 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Special Sale: Yuh Okano 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Exhibitions

Special Sale: Mousumi Shaw 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

For tickets, call (212) 517-ASIA

THURSDAY

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Special Sale: Mousumi Shaw 11 am-6 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

AsiaStore Asian American Designer Series:

Film

Inspired by Asia

Special Sale Event

Exhibitions

Inspired by Asia: Works by New York City Students 5/5-5/31

Yang Fudong: Seven Intellectuals of the Bamboo Forest Thru 9/9

Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America Thru 8/9

EXHIBITIONs

Australian Short Film Today 6:30 pm

WEDNESDAY

Throughout the Month

TUESDAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

MONDAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

SUNDAY

✁ 1

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

LGBT 6 pm–9

Happy Hour—Third Fridays

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Corp. Diversity Networking 6 pm–9 pm

Happy Hour—Second Fridays

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Carol Cassidy 11 am-9 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

Special Sale Event

Asia Circle Cocktail Evening 6 pm–9 pm

Happy Hour—First Fridays

FRIDAY

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Inspired by Asia

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Throughout New York City

Asian Contemporary Art Week

Inspired by Asia

16 Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

Carol Cassidy 11 am-9 pm Personal Appearance 1 pm-4 pm

Special Sale Event

Every BODY has a Story: Movement in Asia 12 pm-3 pm

Coca-Cola family day

S AT U R DAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Sardono Dance Theatre– Diponegoro 3 pm

Muslim Voices Performance

1:30

Muslim Voices free Performance lecture

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza 7:30 pm

Muslim Voices performance

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

SUNDAY

Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza 7:30 pm

Muslim Voices performance

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Empowering Asian Employees 8:30 am-4:15 pm

Diversity Leadership Conference

MONDAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Chaikhana/Tea House 7:30 pm

Muslim Voices Reading

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Jun

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Reza Aslan in Conversation with Vishakha Desai 6:30 pm

President ’s Forum

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Innovations in Microfinance: Addressing the Water Needs of the Poor 12:30 pm

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

3 citi series discussion

WEDNESDAY

ciExhibitions

TUESDAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Sight Unseen: Video from Afghanistan and Iran 6/9 Thru 9/13

Yang Fudong: Seven Intellectuals of the Bamboo Forest Thru 9/9

Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America Thru 8/9

EXHIBITIONs

Throughout the Month

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Parissa: An Evening of Persian Classical Music 7:30 pm

Exhibitions

Muslim Voices Performance

Parissa: An Evening of Persian Classical Music 7:30 pm

Steve Blum and Ameneh Youssefzadeh 6 pm

Muslim Voices Free Performance Lecture

AsiaSociety.org

For more info on Asia Society visit

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Sardono Dance Theater— Diponegoro 7:30 pm

Muslim Voices Performance

Muslim Voices free Performance lecture

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Locations across New York City

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

S AT U R DAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

FRIDAY

Muslim Voices Performance

Steve Blum and Ameneh Youssefzadeh 6 pm

Muslim Voices Free Performance Lecture

Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Exhibitions

THURSDAY

SUNDAY

Jul

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Throughout the Month Exhibitions

Asian Journeys: Collecting Art in Post-war America Thru 8/9 Yang Fudong: Seven Intellectuals of the Bamboo5Forest Exhibitions Thru 9/9

WEDNESDAY

Exhibitions

THURSDAY

Exhibitions

FRIDAY

S AT U R DAY

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys SightFudong Unseen: Yang

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

Video from Afghanistan and Iran Thru 9/13

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Special Event

Annual Summer Sale 11 am-6 pm

Special Event

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

MONDAY

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong

Aug SUNDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Special Event

For more info on Asia Society visit

Annual Summer Sale 11 am-6 pm

THURSDAY

AsiaSociety.org

FRIDAY

S AT U R DAY

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen Special Event

Annual Summer Sale

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Special Event

Annual Summer Sale

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Asian Journeys Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Special Event

Annual Summer Sale

Annual Summer Sale 11 am-6 pm

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Special Event

Annual Summer Sale

10 Special Event

am-6 pm

23 Yang Fudong 30 Exhibitions

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Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong Sight Unseen

Special Event

Annual Summer Sale

am-6 pm

17the Exhibitions Throughout Month Exhibitions

am-6 pm

Asian Journeys

Collecting Art in Post-war America Yang Fudong Thru 8/9 Sight Unseen Yang Fudong: Seven Intellectuals of the Bamboo Forest Thru 9/924 25 Exhibitions

31 Asian Journeys Sight Unseen: Video from Afghanistan and Iran Yang Fudong Thru 9/13 Sight Unseen

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

am-6 pm

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

Exhibitions

Yang Fudong

Sight Unseen

ASIA SOCIETY NEWS AND EVENTS • SUMMER 2009

29 23

Supporters

Asia Society deeply appreciates the generous support of its donors, who ensure the continued success of our programs. With the abiding commitment of members and supporters, the Society continues to prepare Asians and Americans for a shared future.

Support for the Asia Society Museum and Cultural Programs is provided by the Friends of Asian Arts, the Society’s Contemporary Art Council, Arthur Ross Foundation, Sheryl and Charles R. Kaye Endowment for Contemporary Art Exhibitions, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller Fund, National Endowment for the Humanities, Hazen Polsky Foundation, New York State Council on the Arts, and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Major support for performances at Asia Society is provided by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, the Helen and Will Little Endowment for Performing Arts, and The Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation. Major support for the “Creative Voices of Islam in Asia” project is provided by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, and Lisina M. Hoch. Soul of Asia is supported by Harold J. and Ruth Newman. Major support for Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas is provided by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, The Rockefeller Foundation’s New York City Cultural Innovation Fund, Robert Sterling Clark Foundation, The Ford Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. WNET.ORG and The New York Times are media partners for Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas. Major support for the Asia Society’s Policy Programs is provided by the Nicholas Platt Endowment for Public Policy. Asian Social Issues Programs are supported by the Ford Foundation, Citi Foundation, Ward W. Woods, Carnegie Corporation of New York, The Folger Fund, Alfred and Jane Ross Foundation, Irfan Kathwari Foundation, Pote Videt, The Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Open Society Institute, David S. Hirsch, and an anonymous donor. Asia Society programs are also made possible, in part, by the Asia Society’s India Fund, Philippines Fund, and Pakistan Fund. Support for Afghanistan programs is provided by Tom Freston. Education Division programs are supported by The Freeman Foundation, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The Goldman Sachs Foundation, MetLife Foundation, Ford Foundation, U.S. Department of Education, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, National Endowment for the Humanities, Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad, Office of Chinese Language Council International (Hanban), National Foreign Language Center, Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, and Carnegie Corporation of New York. Major support for the Asia Society Center on U.S.-China Relations is provided by the Arthur Ross Foundation, Jon A. Anda and several anonymous donors. Major support for Asia Society’s new media initiatives is provided by David Rubenstein.

media partners for muslim voices: arts & ideas

front cover image: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with Asia Society President Vishakha N. Desai. © Elsa Ruiz; may calendar images, clockwise: Dancer Shraddha Nagaraj; Students visit Asia Society Museum with Nancy Blume, Head of Museum Education Programs, Asia Society. © Elsa Ruiz; Solmaz Shahbazi (born 1971). Persepolis, 2005. DVD. 17 minutes, 40 seconds. Courtesy of the artist; Ring by Mousumi Shaw. Courtesy of Designer. june calendar images, clockwise: Diponegoro. Jack Vartoogian/ FrontRowPhotos; Dastangoi: The Adventures of Amir Hamza. Abhinandita Mathur; Atlanta skyscraper; Reza Azlan. Hillary Jones; Parissa. Jack Vartoogian. july calendar images, clockwise: AsiaStore; Head of Buddha. India, Mathura. Gupta Period (320–647), 5th century. Red mottled sandstone., H. 12 x W. 6 1/2 in. (30.6 x 16.6 cm). The Cleveland Museum of Art. John L. Severance Fund,, 1963.504 Image © The Cleveland Museum of Art. august calendar images, clockwise: Seven Intellectuals in a Bamboo Forest, Part V of V, 2007. 35mm black-and-white film transferred to DVD, sound. 29 minutes, 36 seconds., Asia Society, New York: Promised gift of Mr. and Mrs. Hal and Ruth Newman. Image courtesy of the artist and ShanghART Gallery, Shanghai. back cover image: The Empire State Bulding. The Empire State Building design is a trademark of ESBC and is used with permission.

Asia Society and Museum

725 Park Avenue (at 70th Street), New York (212) 288-6400

Information

Hours

Galleries: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 am–6:00 pm, Friday, 11:00 am–9:00 pm From July 1 through Labor Day, Friday until 6:00 pm Closed Monday and major holidays. AsiaStore: Monday–Sunday, 11:00 am–6:00 pm, Friday, 11:00 am–9:00 pm From July 1 through Labor Day, daily until 6:00 pm and closed Monday. Closed major holidays. Garden Court Café: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 am–4:15 pm. From July 1 through Labor Day, Friday until 2:00 pm. See details on the lower right. For reservations, call (212) 570-5202. Closed Monday and major holidays.

$10 adults $7 senior citizens $5 students with ID Free to members and children under 16 Free admission Friday, 6:00 pm–9:00 pm Free Museum Fridays are suspended July 1 through Labor Day. Museum and programs accessible by wheelchair. Wheelchairs available for use during visits. A complementary cell phone audio tour is now available. See reception desk for an instruction card. Assistive listening devices and headsets available for most programs. To order tickets BY Credit Card

Online*: https://tickets.AsiaSociety.org Available for most programs. By phone*: (212) 517-ASIA Monday–Friday, 10:00 am–5:00 pm From July 1 through Labor Day, Monday–Thursday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. By fax*: (212) 452-1422 *Processing Fees Apply: $3 per phone/fax order, $1.50 per online order, and Free for Members

Membership

For information on becoming an Asia Society member, call (212) 327-9338 or email membership@asiasoc.org.

Corporate Membership

In Person: Cash, check or credit card orders available at the Asia Society reception desk, Monday–Sunday, 11:00 am–6:00 pm. Absolutely no refunds, exchanges or cancellations. All tickets will be held at the reception desk for pick-up the day of the program. Tickets may be picked up beginning one hour prior to the start of the program. Please order tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Can’t visit Asia this summer? AsiaStore brings Asia to you! AsiaStore has traveled throughout Asia, viewing the latest designer collections and scouring the marketplaces in search of the “must have” accessories, jewelry, textiles and home accents. Members enjoy a 10% discount. shop online at asiastore.org

Exhibition Tours

Tuesday–Friday, 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm (Friday also at 6:30 pm) Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 pm The 12:30 pm and 6:30 pm tours suspended July 1 through Labor Day. Coats and bags may be checked at no charge.

Mon.–Sun., 11 am–6 pm; Friday until 9 pm From July 1–Labor Day, daily until 6 pm and closed Monday

Directions

Bus: M1, M2, M3, M4 to Madison & 70th; M101, M102 to Lexington & 70th; M30 to Park & 72nd; M66 to Park & 68th Subway: #6 to 68th St. Parking: 71st between Park & Lexington; 71st between Lexington & Third Questions, comments or other feedback about our new publication? Email us at editor@asiasociety.org

Careers at Asia Society

Learn about the latest employment opportunities at AsiaSociety.org/jobs.

Interns/Volunteers

For information, please call (212) 327-9299, email CorpMembership@AsiaSoc.org, or visit AsiaSociety.org/support/corporate.

Interns and volunteers are vital to many aspects of the organization and are welcome to apply at any time throughout the year. For information on current opportunities, visit AsiaSociety.org/about/interns.

Facilities Rental Information

Group Tours

Looking for an intriguing space to hold an event? Discover Asia Society’s rental opportunities. Nonprofits, Corporate, Chairman’s Circle, President’s Circle and Friends of Asian Arts members have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including an elegant auditorium, reception halls and the stunning Garden Court, all accompanied by distinctive catering services. For information, call Hesh Sarmalkar at (212) 327-9322 or visit AsiaSociety.org.

AsiaStore

Groups are welcome at the Asia Society and Museum. Adult Groups: For information or to schedule a tour, please call (212) 517-ASIA. School and Education Groups: For information or to schedule a tour, please call (212) 327-9237.

Asia Society Online AsiaSociety.org AsiaSource.org AskAsia.org InternationalEd.org AsiaFood.org

Gracious Thyme

Admission

Garden Court Café An award-winning neighborhood favorite, this delectable café sets the mood with a serene ambiance and a dynamic, Asian-inspired menu that changes with the season. Enjoy savory lunch offerings and an exquisite selection of teas and desserts. Membership Cardholders receive a 10% discount on their portion of the meal. Tues.–Sun., 11 am to 3 pm. From July 1–Labor Day, lunch is served Tues.–Sun., 11:00 am to 2:00 pm

HONG KONG • HOUSTON • LOS ANGELES • MANILA MELBOURNE • MUMBAI • NEW YORK • SAN FRANCISCO SEOUL • SHANGHAI • WASHINGTON, D.C.

ASIA SOCIETY WORLDWIDE

How can employers empower their Asian employees? Get the latest at our Diversity Leadership Forum, Page 17

AsiaStore’s Asian American Designers Series Features Personal Appearances by Top Designers, Page 18

The Empire State Building lights in all green on June 5-7 to celebrate the festival, Muslim Voices: Arts & Ideas, Page 13

725 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10021-5088

Asia Society and Museum address service requested