Art & Cultural History

Coming Exhibition: Loving Devotion: Visions of Vishnu

“Loving Devotion: Visions of Vishnu”

Vishnu with Attendants, Bangladesh, 12th century, schist (stone), Collection of the Newark Museum

Vishnu with Attendants, Bangladesh, 12th century, schist (stone), Collection of the Newark Museum

Who:  BYU Museum of Art

When: Sept. 5, 2014 – Feb. 21, 2015 (Mon-Sat. 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.)

Where: 

Brigham Young University Museum of Art
North Campus Drive
Provo, Utah 84602

How Much:  Generally Free, some special exhibits require a ticket.

More Information: Here.

“Featuring a variety of exquisite art objects from the Indian subcontinent, Loving Devotion illuminates the rich heritage and symbolism of Hindu worship in the lives of believers, immersing viewers in the beliefs and culture of one of the world’s oldest and largest religions.

Focusing on images of Vishnu and Krishna that span centuries of history, the exhibition explores how bhakti (the practice of fervent, impassioned devotion to deity) influences the lives and worship of Hindu people and reveals the depth and intimacy of their relationship towards the divine.

Indeed, building a relationship with God is at the core of life’s purpose for the devoted believer, and both Vishnu, the Preserver, and his incarnation, Krishna, are highly revered deities that have both been the focus of significant bhakti worship. Through powerful images of these Gods inscribed on stone, in bronze or in paintings, worshippers and viewers alike are invited to learn that god is love and not fear, and understand how worship can evolve from practice to joyful experience of immense love and devotion. . . . .”

 

Art I Love: “Missouri Landscape” by Brent Sanders

(c) Brent Sanders 2012

(c) Brent Sanders 2012

Cubans Petition UN to Make Rumba Part of World’s Cultural Heritage

“Cubans Petition UN to Make Rumba Part of World’s Cultural Heritage”

by Michael Voss via CCTV

MVO RUMBA CUBA.Still002

“People in Havana are working to preserve the older style of the Latin classic dance Rumba as a part of the world’s cultural heritage.

At this year’s week-long annual Timbalaye Rumba Festival in Havana, the organizers are petitioning the United Nations to have the music and dance form recognized as part of the world’s cultural heritage.

The festival also includes music classes and dance workshops. The roots of Rumba go back to the era of slavery, remain an integral part of Santeria, the Afro religion which is still widely practiced on the island.

Music and dance are an integral part of life in Cuba, and the Rumba is a core part of that. . . .”

READ ORIGINAL

Korean Cultural Heritage Festival Marries Contemporary and Cool with Traditional Arts

“Korean Cultural Heritage Festival Marries Contemporary and Cool with Traditional Arts”

by Carlito Pablo via “Georgia Straight

THIS YEAR’S KOREAN Cultural Heritage Festival will have a modern feel.

According to festival spokesperson Mike Suk, it’s going to be vibrant and cutting-edge, reflecting South Korea’s status as a major global tastemaker, from cars to smart phones to pop culture. The festival’s theme is Dynamics of a Modern Korea.

“We want to show people the new Korea,” Suk told the Georgia Straight in a phone interview.

According to Suk, Hyundai will roll out its latest cars at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby’s Central Park, the venue for the 13th annual festival organized by the Korean Cultural Heritage Society.

He added that for the first time, huge TV screens will be set up to play Korean pop-music (K-pop) videos and commercials throughout Saturday (August 16). On-stage, local performers will sing and dance to K-pop songs.

“The energy is going to feel different,” Suk said. “It is important to note, this festival is not exclusive to the Korean community but rather a true celebration of a multicultural Canada”

Historically, the festival has been about traditional elements, and Suk said those will be present as well. A drum dance will open the festivities, followed by a reenactment of a traditional Korean royal wedding.

There will be a demonstration of the Korean martial art tae kwon do, and there will be tightrope-walking, or jultagi. A food pavilion will offer Korean food, beer, and wine, and traditional Korean souvenirs and gifts will be sold.

B.C.’s Korean community has grown to about 80,000. According to Suk’s organization, it is second in size in Canada to Ontario’s. . . . .”

 

Read More

Chinese Calligraphy, Painting Exhibition Opens in Albania

“Chinese Calligraphy, Painting Exhibition Opens in Albania”

by Wang Siwei via “Xinhua English News

Chinese

A woman watches a traditional Chinese painting at a Chinese calligraphy and traditional painting exhibition kicked off in Tirana, capital of Albania on July 25, 2014. About 18 artists from China displayed their masterpieces to Albanians during the exhibition, which will last to July 29. (Xinhua/Wang Siwei)

READ MORE