Traditional Chinese Hats on Exhibit at Kortman Gallery
“Mao Zi: an exhibition of traditional Chinese hats” opens on Friday, August 3rd in the Kortman Gallery in Downtown Rockford. The colorful, mostly hand-made hats represent different periods and provinces of China. Mao Zi is the Chinese term for hat.
“As in most cultures, hats tell a story or represent social status or even express ceremony or celebration,” says gallery director Doc Slafkosky. “Many of the hats on display are hats created for children by family members, so you could even say that hats represent family endearment.”
Most of the hats on exhibit are older, representing colorful folk art and provincial traditions, while some of the hats are newer, influenced by the cultural revolution. Also included in the show are painting and sculpture replications influenced by Chinese artist Yue Minjun that feature hats.
“These hats are not only little works of art, but personal objects. This exhibit presents a chance to get a first hand glimpse, both visual and tactile, of the culture of this vast and compelling country,” Slafkosky said. “Gallery patrons are welcome to touch the hats’ fabrics and other decorative materials.”
An opening reception for “Mao Zi: an exhibition of traditional Chinese hats” will be Friday, August 3rd from 5:30 to 9pm which coincides with First Friday Downtown. The hats will be on display through September 8th, 2012. The gallery is located upstairs at J. R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 North Main Street. For further information call 815/968-0123 or visit www.jrkortman.com.
What: “Mao Zi” an exhibition of traditional Chinese hats
When: Opening reception: Friday, August 3rd, 5:30 to 9pm. The exhibition runs through
September 8th. Gallery & Store open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 6pm.
Where: Kortman Gallery, upstairs at J. R. Kortman Center for Design,
107 North Main St.
Admission: Free