The Daura Gallery at Lynchburg College will open three exhibitions depicting various aspects of Japanese culture beginning March 10 and continuing through April 13. The exhibitions include:
In Lotus Land: The Photographs of Herbert Ponting, a collection of 53 original collotypes of Japanese scenes. Curated by Sociology Professor Chuck Shull, this exhibition focuses on the work of Herbert George Ponting, including portraits, landscapes, monuments, and genre scenes.
The Actor's Image: Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints, woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) featuring the highly stylized dramas and images of popular actors from the Kabuki theater that flourished in seventeenth century Japan.
Japanese Tea Ceremony, nineteen photographs, posters, and print reproductions encompassing all elements of the Japanese tea ceremony. On April 14 at 2 p.m., the Gallery will present "Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku Spells Tea," a video of the Japanese tea ceremony.
An opening reception will be held March 12, from 4 to5 p.m., in the Gallery, and a Gallery Talk, "The Impressionist's Understanding of Japan, A Marvelous Misinterpretation," will be presented by art historian Dr. Rosemary Smith on Sunday, March 16 at 2 p.m. The exhibitions and all related events are free and open to the public.
The Actor's Image and Japanese Tea Ceremony are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Office of Statewide Partnerships.
The Daura Gallery, located in the College's Dillard Fine Arts Center, is named in memory of Catalan-American artist Pierre Daura and his wife, Louise. The College art collection includes paintings, drawings, prints, and sculpture by Pierre Daura and many other American and European artists.
During the academic year, the Gallery is open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., except for College holidays, and one Sunday afternoon each month for special programs. Admission is free, and visitor parking is available. The Gallery is fully accessible to physically challenged visitors. For more information about the Daura Gallery or to schedule an appointment for a gallery tour, call 434/544-8343 or 434/544-8595.