CELEBRATING THE CENTER FOR ASIAN ART

Please join us for the grand opening of The Ringling’s newest addition to its storied campus. The Center for Asian Art in the Dr. Helga Wall-Apelt Gallery of Asian Art fosters the exploration of historical and contemporary Asian art through exhibitions, research, and programs, while celebrating the breadth and depth of Asian art and culture.

The 25,000-square-foot Center for Asian Art includes galleries dedicated to rotating installations of The Ringling’s Asian art holdings, a 125-seat lecture hall, an object and print study room, and open storage space to increase public access to the collections.

“The new Center for Asian Art represents The Ringling’s long-term investment in the arts of Asia. We look forward to sharing with our supportive community of visitors, donors, collectors, our wonderful Friends of Asian Art group, students, scholars, and museums worldwide what this robust and exciting resource will make possible today and in the future,“ said Steven High.

On May 15, through engaging performances, storytelling, art-making activities, games, demonstrations, and gallery guides, visitors of all ages can experience the deep cultural traditions and vibrant contemporary directions of one of the most diverse and exhilarating regions in the world. In addition, a variety of foods will offer a culinary tour of Asia.

Among the highlights of the day will be a scavenger hunt in the galleries, a performance of Taiko Japanese drummers, a pan-Asian martial arts demonstration, a family yoga workshop, a kimono presentation, and a live exhibit of silkworms.

Building on relationships with Asian cultural organizations cultivated over many years of presenting Asian-themed exhibitions, programs, and performances, the festival creates additional opportunities to connect with new audiences and introduce visitors to The Ringling’s commitment to Asian art.

“We look forward to inaugurating this significant new resource with everyone in the Gulf Coast communities,” said Maureen Zaremba, Curator of Education. “The educational opportunities and increased public engagement with the arts and cultures of Asia afforded by the new Center are truly spectacular.”