In December, Art Detectives will search for hidden faces in the negative spaces of letters in a charming book by graphic designer Scott Lambert. We’ll then tour Taekyeom Lee: Designed, Printed & Fired. Using unusual materials and digital tools like 3D printers, Taekyeom creates letters, graphics, and objects that invite visitors to explore design through…
The Washi Transformed exhibition includes an exciting variety of works in paper by contemporary Japanese artists, ranging from delicate two-dimensional pieces to dramatic installations. During this Gallery Gathering, we'll take a closer look at a selection of artworks from this breathtaking exhibition. Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper was organized by Meher McArthur and…
Come along for a guided stroll of Taekyeom Lee: Designed, Printed & Fired Discover how the artist uses unusual materials and digital tools such as 3D printers to create letters, graphics, and objects that invite visitors to engage with design through touch, sight, and play.
Join us for a special night dedicated to teachers! This is a free event for educators of all grade levels and subject areas. Enjoy food and drinks and learn about KIA resources for you and your students. Explore Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper and then get creative with drop-in art making activities. Gift…
Join us for a special Meet & Greet with the Gallery Shop team and a few local artists featured in the shop. This event is an opportunity to explore a wide variety of unique, handcrafted gifts, including jewelry, ceramics, and more. Each piece reflects the creativity of our community, making the Gallery Shop an inspiring…
Reginald Dwayne Betts tackles the complexities of life after incarceration through powerful poetry. Navigating themes of redemption, fatherhood, and identity, his poems offer a deeply personal reflection on justice, hope, and the long road to healing. This collection informs Betts's solo show Felon: An American Washi Tale in which Betts collaborated with artist Kyoko Ibe…
Escape the November chill and warm up with a sampling of Japanese sake! During this special event, Keiko Nakajima and Jingran Wang will offer a brief presentation on the history and cultural significance of sake in Japan, followed by a guided tasting of a variety of sakes. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided, and ticket…
During this talk, Reginald Dwayne Betts will explore Felon: An American Washi Tale, a solo show that confronts the weight and legitimacy of the word "felon" through poetry, visual art, and performance. Drawing from his own story—sent to prison at 16, discovering poetry behind bars—Betts will offer an immersive meditation on incarceration, identity, and the…
In February 1959, the front page of the Kalamazoo Gazette announced, “The city is to have a new art center,” with costs of construction paid by Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Gilmore. In addition to their extraordinary philanthropy, the Gilmores were KIA board members, art collectors, and skilled artists. Mrs. Gilmore’s bequest to the KIA…
Come to the library and express yourself through collage with a sampling of washi paper, a traditional Japanese handmade paper. Some washi paper and tape will be provided to incorporate into your pieces. Be inspired by the exhibition on view, Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper. All supplies will be provided. Washi Transformed: New…
Join us for a paper-inspired Community Day! Explore Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper. Washi, traditional Japanese paper, is the main medium of this exhibition, which features two-dimensional works, sculptures, and installations by nine Japanese artists. After viewing the exhibition, get creative with members from the WMU Soga Japan Center who will guide you…
Participants will learn about Japanese American artist Ruth Asawa. We’ll explore Washi Transformed: New Expressions in Japanese Paper, featuring two-dimensional works, sculptures, and installations in paper by nine Japanese artists. Michiko Yoshimoto from the WMU Soga Japan Center will join us to guide an origami activity. After, stay for Community Day to experiment with Japanese…