April 1 & 2

For one weekend only, the George & Sakaye Aratani Central Hall will be adorned with more than fifty imaginative floral sculptures arranged by members of Sogetsu Ikebana School in Los Angeles.

Founded in 1926 by Sofu Teshigahara, the Sogetsu philosophy is that ikebana should be accessible to people of all backgrounds and in all parts of the globe. Stop by and view the work of talented local students who demonstrate a keen awareness and deep respect for the natural world.

April 1 & 2

See April 1 program listing for details.

Delphine Hirasuna presents a varied collection of artifacts photographed by Terry Hefferman in a tribute to the 120,000 Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II. Hirasuna will speak on the art of gaman, "the art of enduring the seemingly unbearable with patience and dignity"; and on how crafts were produced in camp out of found materials. Objects presented in this colorful anthology are examples of what may be found in public and private collections throughout the United States, including that of the National Museum's.

The Art of Gaman: Arts & Crafts from the Japanese American Internment Camps is available for sale through the Museum Store Online or toll-free at 888.769.5559.

Relive history and learn about present-day Little Tokyo with National Museum docents on this historic walking tour.

$8 for National Museum members and $13 for non-members, includes Museum admission. Reservations along with comfortable walking shoes and clothes are recommended. Weather permitting.

Isamu Noguchi explored California's culture, history, and terrain in two impressive works: To the Issei and California Scenario. The former, located on the plaza at the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center in Little Tokyo, pays homage to the Issei pioneers. The latter, resting between two skyscrapers and a parking structure in Costa Mesa, offers a vivid sculptural portrait of the Golden State.

Learn more about the work and the man who created them in a special guided tour with Amy Lyford, Assistant Professor, Art History, Occidental College and Bert Winther-Tamaki, Associate Professor, Asian American Studies, UC Irvine.

Space is limited, $50 for museum members, $65 for non-members, includes transportation and lunch. Advanced reservations highly recommended. For reservations or more information, call 213.625.0414.

Kids of all ages will model and mold Isamu Noguchi-inspired sculpture with goop, a quick-drying and fun material. Whether they create their own sculptures, playgrounds, landscapes, or furniture to take home with them, kids can explore the Isamu Noguchi - Sculptural Design exhibition and discover how they too can make objects that are both beautiful and functional in design.

Free with admission to Isamu Noguchi - Sculptural Design. Kids under 18 years FREE when accompanied by an adult.

Design birds in flight with the art of sumi-e. $8 for National Museum members and $13 for non-members, includes supplies and Museum admission. Reservations are recommended.