Exhibiting the Meditative Nature of Stones
Two Japanese-themed exhibitions open the new year in Westmont’s Reynolds Gallery. “American Viewing Stones: Selections from the James and Alice Greaves Collection” showcases a contemporary adaptation on traditional Japanese suiseki or scholar’s stones. “Kiyoshi Saito Prints” highlights work by an influential Japanese artist that’s part of the college’s permanent collection. Both exhibitions open with a free, public reception on Thursday, January 14, 4-6 p.m., and will be on display through March 11. James Greaves will give a lecture during the reception at 5 p.m.
A Japanese Family Festival on Saturday, March 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will welcome the community to experience Japanese culture with crafts and demonstrations for all ages. This event and most activities are free and open to the public.
Traditional suiseki are stones that evoke landscapes, animals and other natural forms. The American adaptation expands these criteria to include stones that suggest weather, celestial bodies or even abstract art with unusual colors and textures. The stones are prepared and presented in a careful meditative manner, similar to the art of bonsai trees. James and Alice Greaves founded the American Viewing Stone Resource Center, and James will give a more in-depth perspective on the art form during his lecture.
Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997) was an exceptional Japanese printmaker who brought traditional woodblock techniques into the 20th century with his unique aesthetic approach. Named a Japanese national treasure in 1998, he is one of the most recognized printmakers of his time. A decade ago, Ted and Dorcas Hatlen gave 23 Saito prints to Westmont, providing the nucleus for a new permanent college collection of art from the Pacific Rim. Ted is professor emeritus of dramatic art at UC Santa Barbara, where he taught for 33 years. Hatlen Theatre is named after him.
Reynolds Gallery is open weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Sundays and school holidays. For information or directions call (805) 565-6162 or visit www.reynoldsgallery.org.