Winter 2021
Dear Patrons,
As we look forward to reopening again in 2021, I want to inform you of changes to upcoming programs for the next three months. All programs will be virtual and free to the public with the exception of kit-based programs. All of our past virtual programs are now accessible on our YouTube channel. Our new educational brochure features virtual programs and activities for school groups. This January, a virtual Museum tour will be available and you will be able to play the Mineral Match game on our website.
Our new programs would not have been possible without the support of our members and donors! Thank you for renewing your memberships and the extra contributions so many have given during this past year. Tax-deductible matching gift donations will be accepted through December 31, 2020. We also greatly appreciate operating support grants received from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and the Business Interruption Grant (BIG) from the State of Illinois.
With your support, we are encouraged to have faith in the future. We look forward to welcoming you to the Museum again soon. On behalf of the Museum Staff, best wishes this Holiday Season and in 2021!
Sincerely,
Dorothy J. Asher
Director
Special Exhibit
Fan Favorites from the Lizzadro Collection
January 19 through June 20, 2021
Missing some of your favorite pieces in the Museum? Re-visit the “Jade” Bi, the 18 Lohans, and the Rock Café!
See works by American lapidaries and the jadeite table screen from the Chang Collection.
Learn fun facts about each piece in the exhibit.
The Eighteen Lohans in the Lizzadro Collection
Lohans, or Arhats in Sanskrit, were disciples of the Buddha. Attaining an advanced state of spiritual development, they were revered as the protectors of Buddhism. A set of eighteen Lohans, each with an unusual attribute, played a significant role in the Chinese Buddhist pantheon. This virtual lecture, presented by Dr. Tongyun Yin, features the Museum’s collection of 19th century ivory Lohans and discusses the religious meaning represented by each figure and the artistic elements incorporated into Chinese Buddhist art. To watch the presentation click here.
Join us in celebrating the Chinese New Year on Saturday, February 13, 2021 at 2 p.m. with the live virtual lecture Flower Goddesses of the Twelve-Panel Table Screen. Flower goddesses have existed in Chinese folklore for thousands of years. Legend has it, when they sing, hundreds of flowers blossom. During the 17th and 18th centuries, twelve mythological and historical figures were designated as the patron deities of the flowers for each month. Presented by Dr. Tongyun Yin, this lecture discusses the rich historical and literary traditions underlying the intricately carved images and text.
The Oakland Museum of California donated the pair of jadeite and rosewood table screens to the Museum in 2018. This rarely seen work of art was commissioned by Chang Wen Ti in 1929. Each set of six panels measures 11 inches high x 16 inches wide, each panel is divided into three sections with incised gold calligraphy and carvings in low relief. The magnificent translucent jadeite color is emerald “imperial” green. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is unsurpassed today.
To watch the presentation, click here.
Geocaching Scavenger Hunt
Check out the geocaching scavenger hunt for outdoor fun! Download the “Adventure Lab app from the App Store or Google Play, or visit the website. Once you’re logged on, check out the Museum Adventure Games
and start visiting sites! Each location has questions to be answered – win a prize at certain locations!
Passport to Adventure and Geocaching is sponsored by KDRMA (The Kane DuPage Regional Museum Association).
