WEBBTIDE 2001-2002 @ SHORELINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Feb. 01 - Feb. 14, 2002 ARCHIVE GUESTBOOK HELP
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SAAM looks into Asia's glorious past

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      Upon first entering the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM), it is evident that this is a place devoted to extraordinary beauty. The lobby alone takes the breath away, welcoming and enticing the visitor to explore.
      At "A Visit to Grandfather's House," guests may remove their shoes and stroll through the exhibit. This beautiful replica of a Korean gentleman's house is decorated in a simple yet luxurious manner. Every object is functional artwork, and the tidy arrangement summons forth a marvelous sense of peace.
      Just around the corner from "Grandfather's House," children may linger in the Art Activity Room and explore Korean culture. They can practice the Korean alphabet while learning calligraphy. Busy hands may also try paper crafts, making funny faces and thatch-roofed houses.
      The rest of SAAM is for viewing only, but what sights there are. The Japanese Buddhist Art Room offers wood carvings and artifacts dating back to the 12th century. Intricate patterns and awe-inspiring artistic details celebrate the connection between heaven and Earth.
      In the Japanese Ceramics Room, dishes and teapots display flowers, birds and plants. Ordinary household items serve the additional purpose of bringing nature into the home.
      "Farmer Carrying a Basket" is an ivory carving of magnificent detail that defies explanation. The features are so fine and delicate that the naked eye can barely see them. It is difficult to comprehend the skill and patience required to accomplish such an exquisite piece.
      While many objects must remain in glass cases due to value and fragility, quite a few displays are surprisingly accessible. Standing before large folding screens with impressionistic landscapes, dark-red furniture from the Ming Dynasty or sandstone carvings of Hindu deities evokes a feeling that the past is here and now.
      There are many Asian countries represented at SAAM, and the exhibits are respectfully, intelligently constructed to teach about the overlap of traditions among the nations.
      Religious veneration abounds in this part of the world. Placards throughout the rooms illustrate the interplay of historical events, religious figures and a love of nature that is without boundaries. Mortal life does not limit the imagination, for there is much elaborate artwork paying homage to prestigious people and their journey in the afterlife.
      Dazzling snuff boxes made of jade, enamel and rock crystal utterly shame modern-day cigarette packages. Even unhealthy habits were revered through astonishing craftsmanship.
      The Wonders of Clay and Fire Room holds some of the oldest pieces, some thought to originate in 5,000 B.C. Even the most rudimentary ceramic pots reflect a desire for elegance and self-expression.
      History is told through wondrous beauty at SAAM, with exhibits that speak of time-honored tradition and devotion to excellence.
      SAAM is located on Capitol Hill in Volunteer Park, 1400 East Prospect Street. Suggested donation of $3 for adults and students. Free for children under 12 with an adult. Admission is free on the first Thursday and first Saturday of every month (except for special exhibits). For more information and directions, phone (206) 654-3100 or visit www.seattleartmuseum.org.

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by Chindy Valleley

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SAAM looks into Asia's glorious past
.	Upon first entering the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM), it is evident that this is a place devoted to extraordinary beauty. The lobby alone takes the breath away, welcoming and enticing the visitor to explore. At "A Visit to Grandfather's House," guests may remove their shoes and stroll through the exhibit. This beautiful replica of a Korean gentleman's house is decorated in a simple yet luxurious manner. Every object is functional artwork, and the tidy arrangement summons forth a marvelous sense of peace. Just around the corner from "Grandfather's House," children may linger in the Art Activity Room and explore Korean culture. They can practice the Korean alphabet while learning calligraphy. Busy hands may also try paper crafts, making funny faces and thatch-roofed houses. The rest of SAAM is for viewing only, but what sights there are. The Japanese Buddhist Art Room offers wood carvings and artifacts dating back to the 12th century. Intricate patterns and awe-inspiring artistic details celebrate the connection between heaven and Earth. In the Japanese Ceramics Room, dishes and teapots display flowers, birds and plants. Ordinary household items serve the additional purpose of bringing nature into the home. "Farmer Carrying a Basket" is an ivory carving of magnificent detail that defies explanation. The features are so fine and delicate that the naked eye can barely see them. It is difficult to comprehend the skill and patience required to accomplish such an exquisite piece. While many objects must remain in glass cases due to value and fragility, quite a few displays are surprisingly accessible. Standing before large folding screens with impressionistic landscapes, dark-red furniture from the Ming Dynasty or sandstone carvings of Hindu deities evokes a feeling that the past is here and now. There are many Asian countries represented at SAAM, and the exhibits are respectfully, intelligently constructed to teach about the overlap of traditions among the nations. Religious veneration abounds in this part of the world. Placards throughout the rooms illustrate the interplay of historical events, religious figures and a love of nature that is without boundaries. Mortal life does not limit the imagination, for there is much elaborate artwork paying homage to prestigious people and their journey in the afterlife. Dazzling snuff boxes made of jade, enamel and rock crystal utterly shame modern-day cigarette packages. Even unhealthy habits were revered through astonishing craftsmanship. The Wonders of Clay and Fire Room holds some of the oldest pieces, some thought to originate in 5,000 B.C. Even the most rudimentary ceramic pots reflect a desire for elegance and self-expression. History is told through wondrous beauty at SAAM, with exhibits that speak of time-honored tradition and devotion to excellence. SAAM is located on Capitol Hill in Volunteer Park, 1400 East Prospect Street. Suggested donation of $3 for adults and students. Free for children under 12 with an adult. Admission is free on the first Thursday and first Saturday of every month (except for special exhibits). For more information and directions, phone (206) 654-3100 or visit www.seattleartmuseum.org.	.
by Chindy Valleley