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Special Events


<h5>Play Reading Series: Contemporary Japanese Plays in English Translation</h5>

<p>By Shoko Matsumura<br>
Directed by Jordana De La Cruz</p>

<p><strong>Monday, December 6</strong> at 7:30 pm—followed by an artist Q&A</p>

<p>The real and the surreal come together at a small French restaurant in Japan in <em>Cooking Up</em>, written by emerging female playwright and director <strong>Shoko Matsumura</strong>. One of the finalists of the prestigious Kishida Kunio Drama Award, the play takes an unusual turn when the head chef’s wife asks her husband’s mistress to take the place of their missing house cat. <strong>Jordana De La Cruz</strong>, Co-Director of the OBIE Award-winning performance venue JACK in Brooklyn, directs this absurd sojourn into the private lives of the restaurant’s employees. Playwright Matsumura joins in a post-show Q&A with the audience and director. </p>

<p><em><strong>All audience members must show proof of vaccination at Will Call. The approximate audience capacity is 100 people.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Tickets:</strong> $15/$10 members</p>

<p><strong>ON-SALE DATES</strong><br>
<strong>Members:</strong> August 10<br>
<strong>General public:</strong> August 17</p> 

<p>The 16th installment of Japan Society’s annual <em>Play Reading Series</em> introduces topical plays from up-and-coming playwrights in Japan to artists and audiences in the U.S.</p>

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Buy Tickets

The real and the surreal come together at a small French restaurant in Japan in Cooking Up, written by emerging female playwright and director Shoko Matsumura.

1920x1080-CookingUp

Cooking Up

<p><strong>Friday, January 14</strong> at 7:30 pm—followed by a <em>MetLife Meet-the-Artists Reception</em><br>
<strong>Saturday, January 15</strong> at 7:30 pm—followed by an artist Q&A</p>

<p>One of New York City’s most anticipated contemporary dance events kicks off 2022 with its return. Now in its 19th installment, the Contemporary Dance Festival (formerly known as the <em>Contemporary Dance Showcase</em>) from Japan and East Asia includes: from Japan, butoh artists <strong>Kentaro Kujirai</strong> and <strong>Barabbas Okuyama</strong> embodying the philosophy of yin and yang in their haunting duet entitled <em><strong>A HUM SAN SUI</strong></em>; from Taiwan, mathematician-turned-choreographer <strong>Hao Cheng</strong> uses the stage as his chalkboard in a solo that explores quantum physics through repetitive circular motion; and duo <strong>Choi x Kang Project</strong> from Korea, who twitch and jerk like windup toys to the sound of a ticking clock in their comical and technically-daring piece <em><strong>Complement.</strong></em></p>

<p>On both nights, ticket holders and the general public are invited to arrive by <strong>6:45pm</strong> to watch a special 30-minute solo performance in the Society’s lobby titled <strong><em>FreeSteps – NiNi</em></strong>, choreographed by <strong>Wei-Chia Su</strong>,the founder of one of Taiwan’s most-celebrated dance companies <strong>HORSE</strong>. <em>Capacity is limited to approximately 120 people for this pre-performance show.</em></p>

<p><em><strong>All audience members must show proof of vaccination at Will Call. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a fully-vaccinated adult and must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the event start time or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within six hours of the event start time. The test results must clearly show the date and time of the test. The test may be performed by a medical professional or by using an over-the-counter testing kit. For more information, please review our <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/page/visitor-policies-and-safety-protocols" target="_blank">Visitor Policies and Safety Protocols.</a></strong></em></p> 

<p><strong>Tickets:</strong> $30/$25 members</p>

<p>For industry tickets for APAP and ISPA attendees, please reach out to Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program Officer & Contents Strategist, Amanda Waddell, at <a href="mailto:awaddell@japansociety.org">awaddell@japansociety.org.</a></p>

<p><strong>TICKET ON-SALE DATES:<br>
  Members:</strong> October 28, 2021<br>
  <strong>General Public:</strong> November 4, 2021</p>

 The Contemporary Dance Festival, one of New York City’s most anticipated contemporary dance events, kicks off in 2022 with artists from Japan, Taiwan and Korea.

Contemporary Dance Festival: Japan + East Asia


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Contemporary Dance Festival: Japan + East Asia 

<h5>Traditional Performance</h5>

<p><strong>Friday, March 18</strong> at 7:30 pm—followed by a <em>MetLife Meet-the-Artists Reception</em><br>
<strong>Saturday, March 19</strong> at 7:30 pm—followed by an artist Q&A</p>

<p>Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Okinawa’s return to Japan after the U.S.'s post-WWII occupation, a group of the islands' most exquisite dancers will perform a diverse repertoire of Okinawan traditional performing arts accompanied by live music. As specially selected by the young artistic director of the National Theatre Okinawa <strong>Michihiko Kakazu</strong>, the versatile artists will perform highlights from the traditional repertoire of <em>kumiodori</em>, a noh-inspired theater form developed during the period when the archipelago was an independent kingdom called Ryukyu (15th-19th centuries). The program also features popular folk dances (<em>zo odori</em>) with traditional ensemble music. From the brightly-dyed <em>bingata</em> costumes to the island music's iconic use of pentatonic scales, audiences are invited to relish the history and heritage of Japan's southernmost prefecture.</p>

<p><em>Tickets and more information to be announced in late January.</em></p>

<img src="https://images.contentful.com/zwqohdz2e0fx/3pOkjaCdQCsYx4bAhH4nYF/5e1136a1b829d9f62d715db868c62b72/23jikata1___c__Ryohei_Oshiro.jpg" style="border: 0px;" alt="SHeep Inset" width="100%"/>

Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1971 Okinawa Reversion Agreement, a group of the islands' most exquisite dancers will perform a diverse repertoire of Okinawan traditional performing arts accompanied by live music. 

Waves Across Time: Traditional Dance and Music of Okinawa


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Waves Across Time: Traditional Dance and Music of Okinawa  

2021-22 Performing Arts Season

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  <h2>Language Center at Japan Society</h2>

  <div class="mini-block">
    <p>Japan Society&rsquo;s Language Center offers a variety of courses, workshops, and weekend intensives throughout the year in Japanese language, Shodo (Japanese calligraphy), English for native Japanese speakers (ESL), and Japanese-Language Teacher Training, among other special courses and workshops. Founded in 1972, we are the premier Japanese language center in New York City.</p>

  <p>Language Center courses, workshops, and events are structured for adults age 16 or older. (Please see <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/education/kids-family" target="_blank">Education & Family Programs</a> for offerings for younger students.)</p>
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            <a href="/language-center/language-courses"><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/7fXQYLfXQpvnRVOBStoF34/d1b7d5900d645d19406078efca90206c/400x100-languagecourses.jpg" width="100%" style="float: left; max-width: 300px; padding-right: 10px;" /></a>
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        <p>      <a href="/language-center/language-courses">Learn More &rarr;</a> </p>
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        </td>
        <td style="text-align: left; vertical-align: top; padding-top: 10px;" width="33%" >         
        <a href="/language-center/calligraphy"><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/2vZGxZ36AtPP1K4QgrqKa2/63baa0a3b2595e2432d754191f176994/400x100-calligraphy.jpg" width="100%" style="float: left; max-width: 300px; padding-right: 10px;" /></a>
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<p>
              <a href="/language-center/calligraphy">Learn More &rarr;</a> </p>
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        <td style="text-align: left; vertical-align: top; padding-top: 10px;" width="33%" >         
        <a href="/language-center/workshops-and-events"><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/4AakOoYoAkgnSenHLBzcyJ/6e48eca2adae9ee617133e99451006a0/400x100-workshops.jpg" width="100%" style="float: left; max-width: 300px; padding-right: 10px;" /></a>
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              <p>
              <a href="/language-center/workshops-and-events">Learn More &rarr;</a> </p>
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<div class="mini-block">  
  <h2>Resources</h2>
<ul>
  <li>
  <p>Find out which level of study is for you:<br />
    <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/1aESoQs2g1fdy3CZCld95X/871f7c9a3132be718711af91515b2bb0/Japanese_Level_Guide_May_2021.pdf" target="_blank">Japanese Level Guide</a></p>
  </li>
  <li>
    <p>See what the Language Center is offering in 2021 at a glance:<br />
    <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vS8RC6O1fHd6o3ImSOsuW9jGYByx58ndhVz1wfnOm-iAFYQT1biaGd6Gh2X5qPcTg/pub" target="_blank">2021 Language Center Schedule</a></p> 
  </li>
  <li>
    <p>Reference the current semester schedule:<br /> <a href="https://assets.contentful.com/zwqohdz2e0fx/Fh20AZ9XdFzDqxpMo7eHg/5feac81207b93ef86aaeced21b2a4967/2021_Fall_Japanese_Course_Schedule_as_of_8-17-2021__1_.pdf" target="_blank">2021 Fall Schedule</a></p>
  </li>
   <li>
     <p>Meet the Language Center instructors and staff:<br />
       <a href="/language-center/instructors">Instructors & Staff</a> </p></li>
  </ul>

  </div>

  <div class="divider"></div>
  <div class="block">
    <p>Support for Japan Society's Toyota Language Center is provided, in part, by Mark F. Goldfield and Mary E. Hatch; Christopher Hong; Steven Giordano; Juan Ruiz Gomez; The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles; Frederick H. Katayama; and Dr. Bic Kanayjorn.</p>
    </div>
  </div>  
 </div>   

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Language Center

<h2>How to Register</h2>

<p><strong>Classes fill up quickly!<strong> To guarantee a seat in the class, please register as soon as possible. </p>

<p>At the moment, registration is accepted <strong>online (recommended)</strong> or by phone only, and we are only taking payment in the form of credit or debit cards (no checks or cash).  Acceptance will be acknowledged by email.</p>

<p>To purchase or renew a membership, please visit the <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/join-and-support/become-a-member">Membership page</a> and pay online. Or, call 212-715-1270 and leave a message; they will get back to you.</p>

<p><strong>To enroll in two or more courses at the combined discount</strong>, please call (212) 715-1269 or (212) 715-1293. Discount is applicable when enrolling in two or more 9-lesson courses (not Conversation: C1-2) within the 2021 Winter semester only (includes Conversational Japanese and Japanese (numbered level) Courses.)</p>

<p>Registrants will receive a Welcome Email and Zoom link from <a href="mailto:language_inquiries@japansociety.org" target="_blank">language_inquiries@japansociety.org</a> on: </p>

<div style="margin-left: 40px;">
<ul class="bullet">
    <li>the afternoon of Friday, December 3, 2021   (for classes beginning on Monday, December 6, 2021)</li>
    <li>the afternoon of Monday, December 6, 2021   (for classes beginning on Tuesday, December 7, 2021)</li>
</ul>
</div>

 <p>For more information, please email us at <a href=
"mailto:language@japansociety.org">language@japansociety.org</a>, or call <strong>(212) 715-1269 or (212) 715-1293</strong>.  Please note that while we are working remotely, we may not always be reachable by phone.</p>
<br>
  <h2>Please Note</h2>

<p><strong>Cancellation Policy: Tuition is non-refundable and non-transferable (including for credit) for any reason after 12 pm, the business day before your class starts</strong>. All refunds are subject to a $20 service charge, including those requested by the deadline date above. No partial registration or auditing is permitted. Please note that cancellations are accepted by phone. Cancellations via email are not accepted.  Japan Society reserves the right to cancel any course if sufficient enrollment is not obtained. In such a case, students already enrolled will receive full refunds. You also verify that the student taking this class is age 16 or older.</p>

<p>By registering for a course, you accept and agree to the above terms of the cancellation policy.</p>

<p><strong>We do not record these classes, and recording of these classes is prohibited</strong>. If a student misses a class, it may be possible to arrange a make-up class in the same semester, if available. More information will be provided in the Welcome Email. </p> 
<br>
  <h2>Required Textbooks</h2>
<p><strong>Until further notice, textbooks are not available for purchase at the Language Center</strong>. Please purchase your book in advance from an outside vendor. Either a digital or print textbook is fine.</p>

  <p><strong>Level 1 and 2 students:</strong> <br />
<em>GENKI I (An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese) 3rd Edition</em><br />         
published by The Japan Times   |        ISBN: 978-4789017305 </p>

<p><em>*We strongly recommend purchasing the 3rd Edition. Please note that the 2nd Edition has some differences, including page numbers, examples, etc., and is not recommended for this reason.</em></p>

  <p><strong>Level 10 students:</strong> <br />
<em>An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese (Revised Edition)          </em><br />
published by The Japan Times   |       ISBN: 9784789013079     </p>     
<br>
<h2>Instructors</h2>
<p>All of the Language Center’s instructors are native Japanese.  For more information about our instructors, please see the <a href="/language-center/instructors">Instructors & Staff</a> page.</p>

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Japanese 1, 2 & 10

Winter 5-Week Japanese: Levels 1, 2, & 10

9-Class Courses

<h2>How to Register</h2>

<p><strong>Please register <u>by Friday, December 3 at 12 pm ET</u></strong> if possible. These classes are small, so we appreciate your early enrollment. </p>

<p> At the moment, registration is only accepted online (recommended) or by phone, and we are only taking payment in the form of credit or debit cards (no checks or cash). Class size is limited. Acceptance will be acknowledged by email.</p>

<p>To purchase or renew a membership, please visit the <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/join-and-support/become-a-member">Membership page</a> and pay online. Or, call 212-715-1270 and leave a message; they will get back to you.</p>

<p>ご質問は <a href="mailto:language@japansociety.org">language@japansociety.org</a> までご連絡ください。電話でのご登録を希望される方は、クレジットカードをご用意の上、212-715-1269又は212-715-1293までご連絡ください。</p>

<p>Registrants for Shodo for Beginners will receive an email about course materials upon registration for the course.</p>

  <p>  All registrants will receive a Welcome Letter by email from <a href="mailto:language_inquiries@japansociety.org" target="_blank">language_inquiries@japansociety.org</a> on:</p>
    <ul class="bullet">
        <li>            the afternoon of Friday, December 3, 2021 (for all courses)</li>

    </ul>
    <p>The instructor will email the samples and Zoom link by</p>
    <ul class="bullet">
        <li>the end of the day, Monday, December 6, 2021, at the latest (for all courses)</li>

    </ul>

 <p>For more information, please email us at <a href=
"mailto:language@japansociety.org">language@japansociety.org</a>, or call <strong>(212) 715-1269 or (212) 715-1293</strong>.  Please note that while we are working remotely, we may not always be reachable by phone.</p>

  <h2>Please Note</h2>

<p><strong>Cancellation Policy: Tuition is non-refundable and non-transferable (including for credit) for any reason after 12 pm noon, on Friday, December 3, 2021</strong>, which is the business day before your course work starts. All refunds are subject to a $20 service charge, including those requested by the deadline dates above. No partial registration or auditing is permitted.  Please note that cancellations are accepted by phone only. Cancellations via e-mail are not accepted.  Japan Society reserves the right to cancel any course or workshop if sufficient enrollment is not obtained.  In such a case, students already enrolled will receive full refunds for the course, but not for any supplies purchased on their own. You also verify that the student taking this course is age 16 or older.</p>

<p>By registering for a course, you accept and agree to the above terms of the cancellation policy.</p>

<p><strong>We do not record these classes, and recording of these classes is prohibited</strong>. If a student misses a class, it may be possible to arrange a make-up class in the same semester, if available. More information will be provided in the Welcome Email. </p> 

<h2>Shodo Supplies</h2>
    <p>Students are required to purchase their own materials for at home use.</p>

<p><strong>Shodo materials include</strong>: brush, ink (liquid or ink stone and stick), a felt pad, and a paperweight. Hanshi paper if you have it, or printer copy paper will be fine as well.</p>

<p><strong>Devices include</strong>: a computer, tablet, or smart phone which has a camera, microphone, and speaker. It is preferred that you set up a camera to show your work/brush strokes live, rather than your face. This could mean using a stand or creating a comparable set up. If you have two devices, you could create an arrangement where the instructor can see both your work and your face.</p>

<p><strong>If you are purchasing supplies, please do so far enough in advance so that you receive the materials before your first class.</strong> The Language Center is not responsible for delays resulting in a student not being prepared by the first class session, and the cancellation policy still applies.</p>

<p> If you need assistance acquiring Shodō materials, setting up your technology/checking your camera angle, or further information, please email <a href="mailto:language@japansociety.org" target="_blank">language@japansociety.org</a>.</p>  

<h2>Instructors</h2>

<p><strong>Megumi Barringer雅号：修佳 (Shuka)</strong>, a licensed Japanese calligrapher since 1997 by Nihon Sogo Shogeiin in Japan, has taught calligraphy for 20 years in Japan and in Princeton, New Jersey.  She teaches at Princeton Community Japanese Language School, Princeton University, and at her own private studio.</p>

<p><strong>Sanae Asai (Master Suiho)</strong> obtained a BA in Commerce from Meiji University and finished the courses of Certified Financial Planner at NYU, and was bestowed with a Master in 1996 by the Calligraphy Institute of Daitobunka University. She has taught calligraphy for 20 years in schools and cultural institutes in New York, The New School, the Long Island Japanese Culture Center, the Japanese American Society of New Jersey, Japanese Schools, the Hammond Museum, The Mid-Hudson Japanese Community Association, Arts Mid-Hudson as well as her own private studio. As a modern-day calligrapher, she has performed live calligraphy at Rotary Clubs, museums, and cultural festivals as an artist, and has been engaged in commercial projects including marketing materials, logos, school certificates, and industrial designs. </p>

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Shodo for Beginners

Basic Kanji

Kanji / Kana

Winter Shodo Courses

5-Class Courses

<div class="segment">
  <p> <a href="/language-center">Language Center Home</a> | <a href="/language-center/language-courses">Language Courses</a> | <a href="/language-center/calligraphy">Calligraphy Courses</a> | <a href="/page/language-center/workshops-and-events">Workshops</a> </p>

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<div class="block">
  <h2>Spring Japanese Courses</h2>

<p><strong>The majority of courses will be conducted <u>online via Zoom</u>, except those noted as <u>in-person</u>.</strong> All times listed are New York time (ET). <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/5x6mtpLeBazUi19it8UvAb/62cd940906bb526b87223f70ad526b78/Language_Center_Cancellation_Policy.pdf">Please review our cancellation policy here.</a></p>

<p>Thirteen levels of Japanese are offered this spring, from beginner to advanced, emphasizing conversation, listening, reading and writing. Four kanji courses and other specialized courses, such as Anime and Japan Right Now, are also offered.</p>

<p>New students with no previous background in Japanese should enroll in a Level 1 course (see Spring Japanese Level 1). Students with some background should refer to the <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/10iXjEMCTI8B5LaA6SUT72/90f175a98287f8d93e2fe082540b7210/Japanese_Level_Guide-November_2021.pdf">Level Guide</a> or course textbooks to determine the most appropriate class. There is no placement exam. If you are still not sure of your level, it may be possible to schedule a level assessment by phone with the Director. Please email <a href=
"mailto:language@japansociety.org">language@japansociety.org</a> to schedule.</p>

<p>These courses are structured for adults age 16 or older. Please see <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/education/teacher-and-k-12">Teacher & K12</a> or <a href="https:https://www.japansociety.org/education/kids-family">Kids & Family</a> for offerings for younger students.</p>
</div>

<div class="mini-block">
<h4>Levels 1-5</h4>

 <p><a href="https://www.japansociety.org/language-center/spring/japanese-1-5">View Courses &rarr;</a></p>
  </div>

   <div class="mini-block">
 <h4>Levels 6-9</h4>

 <p><a href="https://www.japansociety.org/language-center/spring/japanese-6-9">View Courses &rarr;</a></p>
  </div>

  <div class="mini-block">
<h4>Levels 10 and Above</h4>

 <p><a href="https://www.japansociety.org/language-center/spring/japanese-10-above">View Courses &rarr;</a></p>
  </div>

   <div class="mini-block">
<h4>Special Courses</h4>

<p><a href="https://www.japansociety.org/language-center/spring/japanese-special-courses">View Courses &rarr;</a></p>
  </div>

<p>Full Semester Schedule: <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/38nhv6P7awXOkXCJH1Zk3C/5386484717cf66f9d5dc48b2c9d15527/2022_Spring_Japanese_Courses_Info_as_of_11-18-2021.pdf" target="_blank">2022 Spring Japanese Course Info (PDF)</a></p>

<p>Full Course Listings: <a href="https://assets.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/6dLEaRhj4DMEnxtX0uVkOR/b8dfdebeec14eb04334f8baee25e1f1e/2022_Spring_Course_Schedule_as_of_11-18-2021.pdf"> 2022 Spring Schedule (PDF)</a></p>

Thirteen levels of Japanese, from beginner to advanced, emphasizing conversation, listening, reading and writing. Register for online and in-person courses now!

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Spring Japanese Courses

Language Center & Education

<h5>Live Webinar</h5>
<p><strong>Part of the Living Traditions Series</strong></p>
<p>Thursday, November 11 at 7–8 pm EST (4–5 pm PST) | <a href="https://www.thetimezoneconverter.com/" target="_blank"><em>Calculate your local time</em></a> </p>

<p>Eiichi Shibusawa—widely known as the father of Japanese capitalism following the Meiji Restoration in the mid-19th century—died 90 years ago on November 11, but his influence continues today. An influential entrepreneur and business leader, Shibusawa (1840-1931) was involved in the founding of approximately 500 modern economic institutions in sectors such as banking, insurance, textiles, paper and railroads, as well as 600 social enterprises. Shibusawa embraced the millennia-old teachings of Confucianism, cultivating virtue in economic endeavors, and his firm belief in those principles led him to publish his renowned book, <em>Rongo and Soroban (Analects of Confucius and the Abacus)</em>. Today’s speakers discuss how Shibusawa’s philosophy is very relevant to ESG and SDGs in today’s social and business environment. <em>This is the third of the five-part </em>Living Traditions <em>webinar series.</em></p>

<p><strong>Speakers:</strong><br>
<strong>Christina Ahmadjian</strong>, Professor, Graduate School of Business Administration, Hitotsubashi University<br>
<strong>Ken Shibusawa</strong>, Chief Executive Officer, Shibusawa and Company, Inc.; Founder and Chairman, Commons Asset Management; Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group<br>
</p>

<p><strong>Moderator:</strong><br> 
<strong>Joshua W. Walker</strong>, Ph.D., President & CEO, Japan Society</p>

<p><strong>Agenda</strong><br>
7-8 pm EST (4-5 pm PST) &emsp;&emsp;	Discussion and Q&A</p>

<p><strong>Program Details:</strong> This is a free event, with advance registration required. The program will be live-streamed through YouTube, and registrants will receive the viewing link by email the day before the event. Participants can submit questions through YouTube during the live stream.</p>

Register

An influential entrepreneur and business leader, Shibusawa (1840-1931) was involved in the founding of approximately 500 modern economic institutions in sectors such as banking, insurance, textiles, paper and railroads, as well as 600 social enterprises.

Eiichi Shibusawa: The Spirit of Japanese Ethical Capitalism & Sustainability

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Eiichi Shibusawa: The Spirit of Japanese Ethical Capitalism & Sustainability 

Introducing debut works and new films from six of Japan’s most well-known directors, Flash Forward runs from Dec. 3 to Dec. 23 with online and in-person screenings at Japan Society. 

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<div class="divider"></div>

<p><em>Flash Forward: Debut Works and Recent Films by Notable Japanese Directors</em> is co-presented by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in collaboration with Visual Industry Promotion Organization.</p>

  <p><img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/735Q51tyRDiJDQJGE9FZiA/3c59a02f1082b2b8b08892551669e245/Bunkacho_Logo.jpg" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" alt="Bunkacho" width="120" height="auto" /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
<img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/2rPVHMbLTevASQbin39uXu/dcbd97e7668ae5d28feb9198918da0da/vipo_logo.png" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" alt="VIPO" width="100" height="auto" /></p>

<p>Japan Society Film programs are generously supported by ORIX Corporation USA, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and the Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Endowment Fund. Additional season support is provided by The Globus Family, Masako H. Shinn, David Toberisky, Akiko Koide and Shohei Koide, Geoff and Fumi Matters, Laurel Gonsalves, David S. Howe, and Masu Hiroshi Masuyama. Transportation assistance is provided by Japan Airlines, the exclusive Japanese airline sponsor of Japan Society Film. </p> 

<p><img style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/4eO038iy62lBKJiilxxJ7I/fe523c7d90872a152f30f67f18ec9f59/logo_orix_200_133.jpg" alt="ORIX" width="auto" height="50" />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<img style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="https://jscommunity.japansociety.org/image/nyc_cultural_affairs_logo.png" alt="" width="auto" height="25"</p>

<p><img src="https://jscommunity.japansociety.org/image/JAL.jpg" alt="Japan Airlines" style="margin: 5px 0px 14px 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align-top" ></p>


Flash Forward: Debut Works and Recent Films by Notable Japanese Directors

  <img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/5uEnX3O6ai85xy25hSvkBQ/4e8456609f5e2e12fe72b1774d953bc4/JS_Munakata_WebAsset-1.jpg" style="border: 0px;" alt="Carpentry Header Image" width="100%"/>
  <div class="caption">
    Shikō Munakata, <em>Mukō-machi: Crossing Point of Highways</em>, from the <em>Tōkaidō Series</em>, 1964 (detail). Photograph by Nicholas Knight and Eline Mul.
  </div>
<br>
  <h3>Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing</h3>  
  <p> <strong>December 10, 2021 – March 20, 2022</strong></p>

<p>This new presentation of nearly 100 path-breaking works by celebrated artist Shikō Munakata (1903-1975) is organized from Japan Society’s rare collection—the largest Munakata collection in the United States. Primarily known for his powerfully expressive woodblock prints, this exhibition reveals the breadth of Munakata’s oeuvre, which spanned from prints to calligraphy, sumi ink paintings, watercolors, lithography, and ceramics.</p>

<p>With his bold, spontaneous, and sketch-like lines, Munakata developed an innovative style that revolutionized the woodblock print. A highlight of the installation is his complete <em>Tōkaidō Series</em> (1964), a set of 61 newly rediscovered prints that depict scenes the artist witnessed while traveling along the vital coastal route between Tokyo and Kyoto, which Munakata extended to Osaka. This full set will be on view for the first time since 1965.</p>

<p>No matter the medium, Munakata’s artistic explorations were characterized by a spirited curiosity and relentless experimentation. Munakata incorporated diverse sources and inspiration in his dynamic works, including Japanese folk tales, Buddhism, Western literature and poetry, and nature motifs, represented by works in the exhibition. The exhibition underscores Munakata’s first visit to the United States in 1959 as a Fellow in Japan Society’s Print Artists Program, and includes works he made expressly for Japan Society during his time in New York. Original, experiential exhibition design is by New York- and Barcelona-based MAIO Architects, with graphic design by Eline Mul.</p>

<p>View our visitor guidelines and safety protocols <a href="/page/location-and-hours/visitor-policies-and-safety-protocols">here.</a></p>

  <h5>Admission: $12/$10 students and seniors. </h5>    
  <p><strong>ON-SALE DATES FOR TIMED TICKETS<br>
    Members:</strong> November 11<br>
    <strong>General Public:</strong> December 2</p>

<p><a href="https://boxoffice.japansociety.org/events/9349e967-3ba2-4aeb-94ed-874af2527bc7" class="primary-button" target="_blank">Reserve Tickets</a></p>
        <br>
<p><em>Japan Society members enjoy <strong>free gallery admission and priority access to timed tickets</strong> through December 1. Not a member? <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/join-and-support/become-a-member">Join today and start planning your visit.</a></em></p>

<p style="font-size: 22px">#SeeingMunakata</p>

This new presentation of works by Shikō Munakata (1903-1975) is organized from Japan Society’s rare collection—the largest Munakata collection in the United States. December 10, 2021 – March 20, 2022.

Shiko-Munakata-Main

<div class="divider"></div>

<p><em>Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing</em> is supported, in part, by the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, the W.L.S. Spencer Foundation,  Shigesuke and Noriko Kashiwagi, and The American Chai Trust.</p>

<p> <img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/3v6npcJT7qgQ9crIgSaExf/8421e3667cc2a1ba0cfdc943acfa4140/wls-spencer-logo-350x79.jpg" width="125" alt="" style="margin: 5px 0px 14px 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align-top" ></p>

<p>Exhibitions and Arts & Culture Lecture Programs at Japan Society are made possible, in part, by the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Endowment Fund, the Mary Griggs Burke Endowment Fund established by the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation, Masako H. Shinn, Peggy and Dick Danziger, Raphael and Jane Bernstein, Friends of the Gallery, and an anonymous donor. Support for Arts & Culture Lecture Programs is provided, in part, by the Sandy Heck Lecture Fund. Transportation assistance is provided by Japan Airlines and American Airlines, the exclusive Japanese and U.S. airline sponsors for Japan Society gallery exhibitions.<br />

<img src="https://images.ctfassets.net/zwqohdz2e0fx/6dt9CmfMaP0X7UtzO9yfGx/9eb759585c31695e18d3faba68fb4d54/LOGO-JAL.jpg" alt="" style="margin: 25px 0px 14px 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align-top" >&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<img style="margin-top: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="https://images.contentful.com/zwqohdz2e0fx/6OMoHI1fp2SuQ7fy1y2xV/5d0e13c6b75e2d0aca65dc6ab58c9157/American-Airlines-Logo-Cropped.png" alt="American Airlines" width="auto" height="30"</p>


Shikō Munakata: A Way of Seeing

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<p>Individual Members are central to what we do and why we do it. This is why you’ll always be front and center for exhibitions, series, festivals, performances and more as a member.<br>
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Members at Japan Society enjoy exclusive benefits, invitations to special events and discounts on hundreds of performances, films, lectures and classes annually. Learn more about membership levels and related perks below, and visit our <a href="https://www.japansociety.org/join-and-support/become-a-member/frequently-asked-questions">FAQ page</a> for additional information about our dynamic program.

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<a href="https://boxoffice.japansociety.org/events/d447a1f2-e5e3-494a-841f-5dca59bedb2f" target="_blank"><strong>Join</strong></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;|&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://boxoffice.japansociety.org/events/d447a1f2-e5e3-494a-841f-5dca59bedb2f/renew?login=1" target="_blank">Renew</a></strong> <br />
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 <h5><a name="sustaining-members" class="" style="color: #000000">Sustaining ($250)</a></h5>
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<h3>Circle of Friends</h3>

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    <p><span style="font-size: 1.00rem">Circle of Friends</span> Members receive all the perks of membership, plus access to the Society’s team of experts on Japan. Giving at these levels provides philanthropic support that enables Japan Society to fulfill its mission and share its love of Japan globally!</p>
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<em>$81 non-deductible</em>
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<h5>Benefactor Circle ($2,000)</h5>
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  <h3><a name="affinity-groups" class="anchor" style="color: #000000">Affinity Groups</a></h3>
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    <p>Circle Members may choose to directly support Japan Society programs by joining one of four Affinity Groups with a minimum gift designation of $1,000. Affinity Group members are recognized as a “Friend of...” their designated program area and invited to curated events. Please email <a href="mailto:membership@japansociety.org">membership@japansociety.org</a> if you would like to join an Affinity Group.</p>

    <p><strong>FRIENDS OF THE GALLERY</strong><br />
    Provide critical financial support that sustains Japan Society’s dynamic exhibitions and related lectures and workshops. Established in 1971, the Gallery is one of the few North American public venues that exclusively showcases a full spectrum of Japanese art and its influence on the global artistic scene.</p>

    <p><span style="font-size: 1.00rem">ADDITIONAL PERKS</span>: Gallery and collection visits, private exhibition viewings, studio trips with artists, and first access to art fair VIP passes.</p>

    <p><strong>FRIENDS OF PERFORMING ARTS</strong><br />
      Is a community of passionate theater-goers, music enthusiasts and dance lovers dedicated to Japanese performing arts. Since 1953, Japan Society has presented over 700 performances of the finest in traditional and contemporary dance, music, theater and puppetry arts. From traditional noh plays to commissioned new works from cutting-edge artists, Japan Society is committed to bringing innovative artists of the highest caliber to New York and the U.S.</p>

    <p><span style="font-size: 1.00rem">ADDITIONAL PERKS</span>: Advanced notice of performing arts outings, special invitations to private rehearsals, intimate chats and post-show toasts with artists.</p>

    <p><strong>FRIENDS OF FILM</strong><br />
      Are avid film-lovers who celebrate the country’s rich cinematic culture. Since its first screening in 1922, the Film Program has become the leading pioneer introducing Japan’s rich and diverse films to American audiences. From retrospectives of classics by seminal film-makers, to JAPAN CUTS featuring international, U.S. and New York premieres of the most current releases, Film at Japan Society has something to enchant everyone.</p>

      <p><span style="font-size: 1.00rem">ADDITIONAL PERKS</span>: Private invitations to intimate receptions with prominent film actors, directors, and industry professionals, special screenings, among other film-related events.</p>

    <p><strong>FRIENDS OF EDUCATION AND FAMILY PROGRAMS</strong><br />
      Have a strong desire to make a difference in international education. Sparking interest in Japan through a suite of family, school and educators programs, our Education department connects classrooms around the world.</p>

<p><span style="font-size: 1.00rem">ADDITIONAL PERKS</span>: Special invitations to the Junior Fellows Student Exchange program semi-annual receptions, among other education-related receptions and events. </p>

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