Chinese New Year Event
Saturday, March 01, 2008
By Melanie Miller MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- The Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art hosted its 5th annual Chinese New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 16, 2008.
The Year of the Rat celebration featured a scavenger hunt, music and storytelling and calligraphy demonstrations to celebrate Chinese traditions associated with the New Year. Children also participated in martial arts demonstrations, an art competition and a traditional lion dance.
Winners were also announced for the 4th annual city-wide student art competition, which was displayed at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library and The Belz Museum.
"That’s what’s meaningful about it," said Nancy Knight, Executive Director of The Belz Museum of Asian & Judaic Art. "They’re experiencing art when they come here."
Storyteller Patty Carrearas engaged the crowd while telling the story of the twelve animals representing the twelve Earthly Branches of the Chinese Zodiac. "The teller prepared lovely props and invited the children to participate, with which I think the children were delighted," said William Hu, Associate Director of The Confucius Institute of The University of Memphis.
For artist Samuel Man, whose calligraphy and artwork has been featured in the museum, the event provided a unique learning opportunity for participants. "It is very special for the American that they know something about this art and the Chinese written language," Man said.
Attending families also had the opportunity to explore the museum and view the collection while participating in the scavenger hunt. Sponsors Jillian’s and Blues City Pastry Shop & Coffee Bar donated prizes for winning participants.
The collection captivated participants, many of whom were surprised by the array of artifacts. "Belz Museum holds so many exquisite Chinese arts and crafts, some of which I haven’t seen before even in China," Hu said. The museum provided a platform for Eastern and Western families to get to know one another, Hu explained. Families were able to experience facets of another culture without leaving downtown Memphis. "Being Chinese, I really want to thank [Belz Museum] for what you have done for Chinese culture," said Sarah Xiong, an event volunteer.
Belz Museum would like to thank our partners and sponsors for making this event possible: Art Center, Inc. Confucius Institute of The University of Memphis Belz Enterprises Jillian’s Blues City Pastry Shop & Coffee Bar Greater Memphis United Chinese Association and our wonderful event volunteers We hope to see everyone again next year!
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