"Year of the Dragon: Early China to LEGO" - Exhibition Preview Reception

Attendees will have early access to our exhibition while enjoying an original performance choreographed by the dancer and multidisciplinary artist Irene Hsiao. Wine and appetizers will be served. LIMITED to 100 Spots.

Time and location: 6:00 - 8:30 PM, Fri, Feb 9th, 2024, Heritage Museum of Asian Art

Admission: Members - Free | Non-Members - $25

About the Exhibition:

The dragon has captivated the Asian continent for thousands of years. This exhibition explores the representation of the dragon over the span of a millennium and three Asian countries. It demonstrates how the form and function of dragon imagery have drastically evolved over the centuries.

In this exhibition, we see the image of the dragon on a Japanese enamel cigarette case; a dragon intertwines itself on the base of a silver champagne holder from the Mandarin Hotel; a child’s LEGO toy is built in the form of a mythical dragon. The dragon is found on a household trivet from China and even on postage stamps.

About the Performance:

Heritage Museum of Asian Art is collaborating with our 2024 Resident Artist Irene Hsiao to create a new interactive installation and performance series called If the Sky Could Dream. Coinciding with the Lunar Year of the Dragon, the museum will showcase dragon artworks from throughout Asia, as well as include an original, contemporary vision of the dragon from an Asian American perspective by Hsiao.

IF THE SKY COULD DREAM focuses on the Chinese dragon as a powerful being that fosters harmony. The dragon is emblematic of China and also a mythological being for many Asian and Western cultures. The dragon thus evokes a sense of mysticism, power, and intrigue in many communities. Because the Chinese dragon is a water deity, the installation inside the museum will incorporate images and projections of water, weather, and local bodies of water, including the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

If The Sky Could Dream is supported, in part, by a Foundation for Contemporary Arts Emergency Grant

Accessibility

The Heritage Museum of Asian Art's Entrance is on West 35th Street. Take the elevator to the third floor and turn right to the Museum Reception Desk. Accessible and standard toilets are located on the same floor. Free parking space is available next to the museum via West 35th Street.

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