China Modern: Designing 20th Century Popular Culture

Open through July 1, 2012 

The dynamism ofTwentieth Century China is on full display in China Modern, which chronicles the country's changing character through a celebration of its graphic art and material culture. The more than 180 objects demonstrate how both political ideologies and cultural values are transmitted through conventional objects. Curator Kalim Winata believes that "these everyday materials have been the small steps by which great cultural shifts are made." This is the first exhibition to track graphic art and product design from the Qing Dynasty through the tumult of the Twentieth Century, while also reflecting on the impact art advertising has had on the contemporary experience.

China Modern was developed by the Pacific Asia Museum, Pasadena, CA. Tour organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.

Shanghai Jazz
Friday, May 18
7:00pm
Free with Museum admission
Cory Combs, director of jazz education at SFJazz, will speak on the origins of jazz in Asia with special emphasis on the burgeoning international music scene in Shanghai in the 20s and 30s.

Drop-in Printmaking Studio
Friday, June 1
6:00-10:00pm
$5 per person
In this drop-in workshop for all ages, visitors will carve linoleum for original block prints and silk screen on paper or fabric. Everyone will take home a piece of original art.

Family Day
Sunday, July 1
Noon-4:00pm
Free with Museum admission
Join us on the closing day of China Modern and you will have fun with drop-in tours of the exhibits, crafts and scavenger hunts for prizes.