May 1 kicks off the celebration of Asian History Month. To honor the upcoming month, the Concourse Gallery hosted “Sky Sculptures: Traditional Kites of Asia.”
Located at 3600 Tremont Road in Upper Arlington, the gallery displayed about 50 detailed and colorful kites (first invented 2,800 years ago in China) that represent the eight regions in the South Pacific. The kites symbolize the region’s cultural tradition and beliefs.
The reception took place from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests enjoyed music played on the erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument. They were offered a buffet of sushi, mango juice and wasabi peas, as well as cookies that complemented the Asian-inspired atmosphere.
Lauren Emond, the arts coordinator of the event, said it was a positive experience.
“We want to bring diversity as well as celebrate Asian History in the Upper Arlington community,” Emond said.
The viewing was followed by a solo dance by Rebecca Lydon, showing custom dances from Indonesia. Aharen Honryu Keisen Wanokai also performed dances from Okinawa. The celebration ended with a cellist from the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Yuniko J. Katsuyama, who played Japanese melodies.
William and Victoria Smith were visitors to the affair.
“We enjoy international art and we are glad that people can still be creative,” William Smith said.
The show runs until May 13. For more information, call 614-583-5310.
Brittany Jones can be reached at [email protected].
