The Steeped in History: The Art of Tea Exhibit at UCLA’s Fowler Museum is winding to a close; but during its last month here are some great events to celebrate the art of tea.
November 1, 2009 11 am–2:30 pm Food Program: Sweet Tea and Sticky Rice
Explore Steeped in History: The Art of Tea and Grass Roots: African Origins of an American Art with museum educator and chef Maite Gomez-Rejón. Discover the trade routes, beliefs, and stories related to tea and rice, from Asia to Africa through Europe to the United States. Then, inspired by the in-gallery conversation, cook and enjoy a meal that incorporates food from China, India, England, East Africa and the American South. $40 members; $50 non-members. Reservations required: 310/825-8655.
November 7, 2009 2 pm 22nd Annual Sammy Yukuan Lee Lecture on Chinese Archaeology and Art: James A. Benn: The Buddhist Arts of Tea in Medieval China
22nd Annual Sammy Yukuan Lee Lecture on Chinese Archaeology and Art Prior to the middle of the Tang dynasty (618–907 CE), tea was a beverage produced on a small scale and consumed locally by those who appreciated its refreshing and health-giving qualities. Beginning in the mid-8th century, it rose rapidly to become the drink of choice across the empire. James A. Benn, associate professor of Buddhism and East Asian Religions at McMaster University, explores the role of Buddhist ideas, institutions, and practitioners in the promotion of tea drinking and the invention of a Chinese tea culture. Co-sponsored by the Center for Chinese Studies.
November 12, 2009 6 pm Fowler Out Loud: UCLA Korean Music and Dance Ensemble
The UCLA Korean Music and Dance Ensemble under the direction of professor Donald Kim will perform traditional court and folk music and dance.
November 14, 2009 2 pm and 3 pm Chanoyu Demonstrations Experience chado (the way of tea) at the Fowler.
The Omote Senke School will demonstrate the Japanese tea ceremony most commonly referred to as chanoyu.
November 15, 2009 11:30 am–5:30 pm Fowler On the Town: The Big Chill
Join Kulov, founder of the Annual Valentine’s Tea Festival, for the second of two unique tea experiences in Los Angeles. A tour of Steeped in History: The Art of Tea focusing on tea in the West and a light lunch provided by Tudor House starts a day that includes a tea blending demo/workshop by Steve Schwartz, master blender and founder of the boutique import company The Art of Tea. Close the day with tea cocktails and light fare at stylish tea shop Algabar. Founder and certified tea expert Gail Baral will share ideas on how to use tea to add flavor and depth to your cooking and drinks. Transportation included. $60 for members; $75 non-members for 1 tour; $110 for members; $135 non-members for both tours. See October 25 for first tour description. Reservations required: 310/825-8655. Support provided by Santa Monica Mini Blue Bus.
November 15, 2009 1–4 pm Kids in the Courtyard: Mad Hatter Tea Party
Don’t be late for this very important date! You are invited to a Mad Hatter Tea Party in celebration of the exhibition Steeped In History: The Art of Tea. Come dressed as your favorite Alice in Wonderland character or decorate a crazy hat when you arrive. We’ll be serving a variety of herbal teas and playing tea-inspired games.
November 19, 2009 6 pm Fowler Out Loud: Music of China Ensemble at UCLA
The Music of China Ensemble directed by Chi Li presents an exciting traditional repertoire including Jiangnan silk and bamboo music and an aria from the Kun Opera.
November 22, 2009 2 pm Fowler OutSpoken Lecture with Morgan Pitelka: Tea of the Samurai in Times of War and Peace
Occidental College professor and historian Morgan Pitelka examines how tea gatherings and collections of tea-related art played significant roles in the lives and careers of elite samurai between the 15th and 19th centuries. Samurai studied tea ritual, fetishized tea utensils, employed tea masters as diplomats and art connoisseurs, and came to understand immersion in tea culture as an opportunity for the cultivation of distinct warrior values.
