Members' magazine for the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, Spring 2024

A NEW ERA

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READER SURVEY

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Abbot Kobori Geppo of Kyoto’s Daitokuji Ryokoin Zen temple offers guidance to the museum’s installation team on presenting Chestnuts, one of two unforgettable masterpieces on view in our once-in-a-lifetime exhibition The Heart of Zen, which closed on Dec. 31. n

FROM THE DIRECTOR

Welcome to our first all-digital issue! In just one example of our ongoing transformation to meet the needs of the 21st century, the magazine you love is growing even more robust and interactive. As you may recall from my introductory notes in recent issues, the museum’s movement toward centering experience includes a renewed emphasis on innovative digital content that engages audiences in unexpected new ways. In the following pages, you’ll meet some of the key team members whose creativity and expertise are helping to guide our transformation; you’ll also have the chance to learn more about the memorable experiences we’re developing to make upcoming exhibitions even more dynamic and appealing.

SPRING 2024 VOL. XIII ISSUE 1

Our next chapter has begun: thanks to your support and enthusiasm, the museum begins this era with an expert team and a slate of exceptional exhibitions. As a scholar of Chinese bronzes, I’m particularly thrilled to welcome you to Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendor of China’s Bronze Age, opening April 19, which showcases recent archaeological finds that have revolutionized our understanding of the mysterious Yangzi River Valley cultures and their influence on Chinese history and culture. Join us to unravel the mystery and let your curiosity take flight! n

SEE YOU AT THE MUSEUM

Jay Xu

THE BARBARA BASS BAKAR DIRECTOR AND CEO

Above, top left: Lei wine vessel with dragon-shaped lid, approx. 1000 BCE. China; Hubei province. Suizhou Municipal Museum. Photograph © Suizhou Municipal Museum. Cover: Painted drum with pedestal design of phoenixes on tigers’ backs, approx. 300 BCE. China; Hubei province. Hubei Provincial Museum

2004, by Younhee Chung Paik. Gift

NEW EXPERTISE NEW EXPERIENCES

Meet the leaders of our Experience Division, central to the creation of dynamic and unprecedented art experiences at the museum. As an introduction, we’re pleased to share the following Q&A-style conversations with our new colleagues, Deputy Director and Chief Experience Officer Emiko Usui, Director of Experience Design Garance Marneur, and Director of Digital Content Mark Sabb.

2 ASIAN ART MUSEUM

EMIKO USUI Deputy Director and Chief Experience Officer

You’ve joined the museum at a pivotal time in its ongoing evolution. How would you characterize this moment?

Over the last decade, the museum has expanded its mission — redefining its commitment to showcasing the diverse and varied cultures of Asia by casting an even wider net that includes Asian American art and culture. As members have likely read in previous issues, to align this goal with the needs of 21st-century audiences, a five-year plan (2023–2027) has been developed with the central goal of becoming an experience-centered organization.

Today, the museum is uniquely positioned to bring relevant and real experiences with Asian and Asian American art to life for contemporary audiences. That it has shifted its focus in this direction, and that its leadership and board have made a commitment to taking risks to achieve that goal, are exciting prospects.

What’s one thing you’d like members to know about you?

That is a tough question. I suppose I’d say that I will be looking for integrity, creativity, and collaboration in everything I do at the Asian Art Museum, and that I bring a wide range of professional experiences to the work — from curatorial research, exhibitions, and collections management to publishing, content strategy, and branding, as well as exposure to the use of digital technologies in both the museum and private sectors. I am thrilled to be a part

of the Asian Art Museum’s next chapter and I hope that my long experience in museum work — and my personal vision about how teams can innovate and creatively collaborate — can be useful resources.

What role do members play in the museum’s evolution toward an experience-driven future?

Membership may be one of the most important factors for the future of the Asian Art Museum and every museum. Museum members may be able to show us more about why Asian and Asian American art matters to real people. When they purchase a membership, they are investing in more than a single visit’s worth of art experiences; they can help us understand what a museum needs to do to keep audiences engaged.

What are you most looking forward to in the coming months and years?

I look forward to working with my new colleagues to expand the boundaries of the traditional museum experience, especially using digital technologies. I also want to help the museum center its audiences’ interests and needs, and to connect both traditional and contemporary Asian and Asian American art with what is important to them.

GARANCE MARNEUR Director of Experience

For someone who might be expecting a more traditional art encounter from their museum visit, what can they expect from an experience-centered exhibition?

While they can still look forward to expertly curated artworks and insightful didactics, we’ve sprinkled in a little extra magic — a sensory journey, if you will.

For our upcoming Phoenix Kingdoms exhibition (page 6), for example, imagine stepping into a landscape reminiscent of the very excavation sites where our treasures were unearthed. The ambiance is immersive, drawing visitors into the heart of the ancient world. As they proceed through the exhibition, additional interactive and sensory elements heighten their senses and deepen their connection to the art.

Still, the objects, didactics, and curatorial information uphold the familiar. So, for those seeking a traditional art experience, fear not — you’ll still find what you love. But for those open to a little extra enchantment, our exhibition promises to elevate your visit.

Phoenix Kingdoms is the museum’s first major exhibition to benefit from your expertise. What part of this show’s experience design are you most looking forward to sharing with members?

I’m particularly excited about the holistic sensory journey we’ve crafted for the entrance and exit from the exhibition space. Picture this: a towering 16-foot-tall crack, a symbolic gateway

between worlds, beckoning them to embark on an extraordinary adventure. Passing through this monumental entrance, visitors have an opportunity to play with an “interactive phoenix” before they’re enveloped in a symphony of sights and sounds, setting the stage for the narrative to unfold. At the end, as they bid farewell to Phoenix Kingdoms, they’re bathed in the golden and red light of the phoenix’s rebirth, symbolizing a moment of profound transformation.

It’s this integration of storytelling, sensory stimulation, and emotional resonance that I’m most eager to share with our members and keep developing for future exhibitions. Through our immersive experience design, we’re not just presenting art — we’re inviting our visitors to become active participants in the unfolding narrative, leaving them with memories that linger long after they’ve left the museum.

What do you enjoy or appreciate most so far about the Asian Art Museum?

Besides its awe-inspiring collections, it’s the palpable sense of community and inclusivity that truly sets this institution apart. The Asian Art Museum stands as a beacon of cultural exchange, a sanctuary where stories from across the vast tapestry of Asia converge to weave tales of humanity’s collective journey. Here, art transcends barriers of language and ideology, serving as a bridge that unites us all in a shared celebration of creativity and heritage.

MARK SABB Director of Digital Content

What drew you to working at the Asian Art Museum?

I have been a admirer of the Asian Art Museum for well over a decade and my role as an arts professional in San Francisco has afforded several opportunities to collaborate with the museum, during which I was consistently impressed by the team’s openness and collaborative spirit. These experiences made me feel a strong connection to the museum’s mission and community.

An increased digital experience seems to be a growing trend in museums around the globe. What is exciting to you about expanded digital capabilities in the museum world?

As an industry, we’re at a pivotal moment where museums are increasingly recognizing digital as its own distinct realm, teeming with unique possibilities that extend beyond our physical spaces. This shift is thrilling because it signals the beginning of a new era in how we create, distribute, and interact with art and content.

We are seeing an exciting trend where digital and immersive art installations are being presented alongside traditional art, expanding narratives to literally include the viewer in the story. This not only enhances the interactive experience but also democratizes the way narratives are constructed, making art more accessible and personalized.

Museums are becoming essential partners for technologists and futurists, offering fertile ground for experimentation and development. This collaboration not only propels the museum sector forward but also enriches the technological landscape with cultural depth and diversity.

How might members and visitors see enhanced digital content and technology in their Asian Art Museum experience?

Imagine donning a VR headset to step into a historically accurate or reimagined immersive reconstruction of an ancient site or artwork’s original setting, offering a deeper understanding and connection to the exhibition. Augmented Reality could allow visitors to point their phones at art to see additional information, artist interviews, or historical context pop up right before their eyes. Through Metaverse and Web3, we envision creating experiences accessible from anywhere in the world. Lastly, AI could personalize the museum experience, suggesting tailored tours based on individual interests and past interactions, making every visit unique.

It’s important to me, and to all of us at the Asian Art Museum, that our adoption of digital content and technology goes beyond mere novelty. We aim to inspire our visitors and uncover deeper narratives about the art and artists we feature, making every encounter with our collections more insightful, engaging, and memorable. n

We value input from members and invite you to share your thoughts by taking a brief survey at the end of this publication. Your feedback is crucial in helping us understand how we can enhance our digital offerings to better serve your interests and needs in the future. Together, we can shape a more engaging and enriching digital experience at the Asian Art Museum.

THE LAST SPLENDOR OF CHINA’S BRONZE AGE

APR 19–JUL 22, 2024

THE AKIKO YAMAZAKI AND JERRY YANG PAVILION

In the fields of art history and archaeology, perhaps nothing is more exhilarating than rediscovering an ancient civilization — yet what is “lost” is never truly so. The groundbreaking exhibition Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendor of China’s Bronze Age brings to light two legendary kingdoms of the Zhou dynasty, foundational to China’s Bronze Age culture, whose traces were buried by the ravages of warfare and time. This exhibition of more than 150 artworks from five major Chinese museums showcases some of the most significant new archaeological discoveries in China, including many works recently restored and never before on public display. Traveling for the first time outside China, in bronze, jade, silk, gold, and lacquer, the artistry, spirit, extravagance, and brilliance of the Zhou dynasty are at last revealed in all their glory to audiences in the United States.

During the Zhou dynasty, the ancient Zeng (approx. 1040–400 BCE) and Chu (approx. 1030–223 BCE), two phoenixworshipping vassal states, thrived along the Yangzi River, a cradle of China’s Bronze Age civilizations. According to written historical records, the last vassal states of the Zhou dynasty were obliterated in 221 BCE by the all-conquering Qin Shi Huangdi, the infamous first emperor of China who commanded the creation of the Terracotta Warriors. Remarkable archaeological finds unearthed from aristocratic tombs have at last uncovered the splendid evidence of these sophisticated kingdoms on the southern edge of early China.

“Many of the artworks in Phoenix Kingdoms are considered national treasures due to their rarity and their beauty; they are truly ‘missing links’ between myth and recorded history,” says Dr. Fan J. Zhang, exhibition organizer and Barbara and Gerson Bakar Curator of Chinese Art. “Our exhibition highlights the importance of the Yangzi River region in forming a recognizably southern style that would influence centuries of Chinese art and religion.”

A globally recognized specialist in early China, The Barbara Bass Bakar Director and CEO Dr. Jay Xu observes, “We are living in what is truly a Golden Age of archaeology — Chinese archaeology, that is. There were always obvious gaps in the record that never made sense. Ever wonder why Chinese art brims with phoenixes, tigers, and snake-like dragons? Where do the styles we think of today as distinctly Chinese come from? Phoenix Kingdoms fills that gap with some of the most historically important, as well as eye-catching, finds in recent memory — splendors that bring you face to face with the ancient past.”

Under Xu’s leadership, the Asian Art Museum has been a global trendsetter in exhibiting Chinese archaeology outside Asia. Phoenix Kingdoms serves as the third exhibition of a trilogy the museum has presented — the first being China’s Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor’s Legacy, on view in 2013, followed by Tomb Treasures: New Discoveries from China’s Han Dynasty in 2017.

In Phoenix Kingdoms, the sheer variety of archaeological discoveries — bronze vessels, jade ornaments, musical instruments, weapons, and lacquerwares — illuminates the wealth and sophistication of Chinese material culture some 2,500 years ago. Essential themes include beliefs in sacred birds and the worship of animal spirits. Longstanding motifs, symbols, and forms — theriomorphic spirit guides, dramatic flying creatures, and ritual face coverings — inspired artisans in the Yangzi valley heartland for more than a thousand years.

Highlights from Zeng and Chu bronzeworking masters include the base of a drum stand from the tomb of the Marquis Yi of Zeng (approx. 433 BCE), formed from the intertwined bodies of sixteen writhing serpent-like creatures. Interlocking forms, individually cast, playfully challenge the viewer’s eye and reveal a taste for luxury and extravagance. Among technological marvels is

Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendor of China's Bronze Age is organized by the Asian Art Museum and the Hubei Provincial Museum. The lead sponsor of the exhibition is Fred Eychaner. Presentation is made possible with the generous support of American Friends of the Shanghai Museum, Monica Yeung Arima and Adrian Arima, the Bei Shan Tang Foundation, the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, Tianqiao and Chrissy Chen, Harry and Sandra Cheung, the Ray and Dagmar Dolby Family Fund, Marielle Ednalino and Ken Lamb, Kristine Johnson and Tim Dattels, the Kuo Family, and Tania and Michael Stepanian. Additional support is provided by Winnie and Michael Feng, Buck Gee and Mary Hackenbracht, Angela and Gwong-Yih Lee, the Blakemore Foundation, the Tan Family Education Foundation, and an anonymous donor. Sustained support is generously provided by the following endowed funds: Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions, John and Sherry Chen Endowed Fund, Arlene Schnitzer Endowed Fund, and James M. Gerstley Fund for International Exhibitions. Image: Lei wine vessel with dragon-shaped lid, approx. 1000 BCE. Suizhou Municipal Museum. Photograph © Suizhou Municipal Museum.

gold vessel yet discovered from early China. This lidded bowl and slotted spoon were likely reserved for the personal use of the Marquis himself. Gold, which does not tarnish, appears indestructible. This rare metal was key to the development of China’s cult of immortality. Here, the benefits of imperishability were likely believed to flow from the golden vessels to their owner.

The large lacquer-on-wood painted drum with pedestal design of phoenixes on tigers’ backs (approx. 300 BCE; a detail appears on this issue's cover) represents the Chu’s distinctive tradition of sculpture and music, as well as the ritual importance of musical instruments. The circular drum, dramatically framed by outward-facing phoenixes, at once elegant and fierce, exudes essential symbolism. Because phoenixes were thought to possess the magical power of transcending different realms, they were revered as sacred creatures who guided deceased souls and helped humans achieve immortality.

EXHIBITION CATALOG

The exhibition is accompanied by a 240-page publication, Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendor of China’s Bronze Age, featuring essays from leading scholars and 324 color images. Available in soft ($40) and hard ($65) covers at the museum’s Cha May Ching Boutique and online at store. asianart.org. Members always receive a 10% discount.

“Many of the artworks in Phoenix Kingdoms are considered national treasures due to their rarity and their beauty; they are ‘missing links’ between myth and recorded history.”

— DR. FAN J. ZHANG, EXHIBITION ORGANIZER AND BARBARA AND GERSON BAKAR CURATOR OF CHINESE ART

Left: Lidded bowl and slotted spoon, approx. 433 BCE. Hubei Provincial Museum.

Above: Double-walled square jian-fou cooler, approx. 433 BCE. Hubei Provincial Museum Photographs © Hubei Municipal Museum.

MODERN MYTHMAKING

HAMBRECHT CONTEMPORARY GALLERY

Into View: New Voices, New Stories features newly acquired contemporary work from 14 Asian American and Asian diaspora artists, many local to the Bay Area. A mix of sculpture, painting, ceramics, prints, and mixed media, the exhibition centers on themes of personal mythmaking, with artists rewriting familiar stories into empowering narratives befitting a modern age and a hopeful future. Works such as Heroine by Rupy C. Tut (b. India, 1985), a reimagined scene from a Punjabi folktale, and Nuwa’s Hands by Cathy Lu (b. United States, 1984), a contemporary envisioning of a Chinese mythological goddess, reclaim centuriesold folktales to create liberated tales for a modern era.

“These stories are about imagining alternatives, generating the kind of fables these artists would like to have heard as children, perhaps to guide the lives they lead today — but which they now create through their art rather than receiving them through tradition alone,” says Assistant Curator of Contemporary Art and Programs Naz Cuguoglu, curator of Into View: New Voices, New Stories “Personally, I wanted to highlight how these artists are challenging a historically male-dominated art world through the retelling of traditional tales.”

This exhibition affirms the museum’s commitment to giving a platform to Asian American and Asian diasporic artists and

experiences. “As a museum, inevitably, you become a gatekeeper,” says Head of Contemporary Art Abby Chen. “At the same time, you must also be conscious that you are a gate opener. It’s critical that we open the gate for the Asian American and Asian diasporic experience, and provide that representation for our guests, as well as for the artists.” n

Into View: New Voices, New Stories is organized by the Asian Art Museum. Sustained support generously provided by the Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions and the Kao/Williams Contemporary Art Exhibitions Fund. Image: Installation view of Into View: New Voices, New Stories. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

OPEN AIR. OPEN MINDS. OPEN NOW.

EAST WEST BANK ART TERRACE

Enjoy a breath of fresh air and encounter eye-catching, large-scale works of contemporary art on the museum’s long-awaited East West Bank Art Terrace. Planning and design for this expansive, open-air art space commenced in 2015, with construction beginning in 2018; originally scheduled to open alongside the Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Pavilion but delayed by the pandemic, the opening of the Art Terrace in August of 2023 caps off our forward-looking, multiyear expansion project aimed at transforming the visitor experience. Construction of the Pavilion and Art Terrace has been made possible by For All: the Campaign for the Asian Art Museum and the continued generosity of our dedicated members and supporters.

A s the city’s largest rooftop art terrace, the new 7,500 sq. ft. outdoor venue provides a destination where guests can experience special live performances, enjoy refreshments, and participate in exciting museum events. Designed by wHY Architects, the space also serves to connect and unify the museum’s various architectural styles — knitting together the beaux-arts, postmodern, and contemporary. Its location greatly

enhances the flow of the museum experience, bringing the outdoors into the museum visit in an artful way.

In addition to programs, performances, and gatherings, the Art Terrace features large-scale contemporary sculptures and commissioned installations. The first group of works includes eclectic offerings from three contemporary artists. Based on fantastical, anamorphic decorations inscribed on Chinese bronze vessels, Taotie (2022) by Kongkee (b. 1977, active Hong Kong and Vancouver) uses electric pink neon to connect the ancient to the omnipresent messages of our social media age. Breast Stupa Topiary (2013/2019) by Pinaree Sanpitak (Thai, b. 1961) pays elegant homage to the contours of the human form and ancient Buddhist monuments that played dual roles as both burial memorials and axis mundi connecting the heavens and the earth. Finally, Luminous Ground (2018/2020), a ceramic mural by Ala Ebtekar (b. 1978, active San Francisco and Tehran) marries the beautiful blue of tiles often seen in Persian mosques with deepspace imagery produced by the Hubble telescope — uniting the celestial visions of spirituality and science. n

Ala Ebtekar: Luminous Ground is made possible with the generous support of lead sponsors Tina and Hamid Moghadam. This installation is a part of the Asian American Experience, which is made possible with the generous support of Glen S. and Sakie T. Fukushima, an anonymous donor in memory of Ambassador and Mrs. Sampson Shen, and Claudine Cheng. Image: Ala Ebtekar in front of the installation of Luminous Ground. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

A BAY AREA ICON

THROUGH FEB 28, 2025

FANG FAMILY LAUNCHPAD

An iconic work by influential Bay Area artist Ruth Asawa (American, 1926–2013) is currently on view in the Fang Family Launchpad. Evoking shapes found in nature, Untitled (S.272) is a nine-foot hanging sculpture and a masterful example of the suspended abstract works for which Asawa is best known. Her signature style is precise in its looped wire, while also suggesting gentle movement and evoking a softness in the undulating curves. Asawa’s sculptures are recognized as meaningful contributions to midcentury art’s rigorous exploration of spatial abstraction, and represent a visionary bridge between the major themes of sculpture in the modern postwar period and the subsequent era of contemporary art.

B eloved in the Bay Area, Asawa is also known for her contribution to the local arts scene and is remembered as a committed educator and arts activist. In addition to her important work with organizations like the San Francisco Arts Commission, Asawa was foundational in the creation of San Francisco’s public arts high school, now named Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts in her honor. n

Installation view of Ruth Asawa, Untitled (S.272, Hanging Seven-Lobed Continuous Interlocking Form with Spheres in Two Lobes), approx. 1954. Copper and iron wire. © 2024 Ruth Asawa Lanier, Inc./Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

The Fang Family Launchpad is dedicated to honoring the achievements of Asian and Asian American artists. Conceived as a bridge between cultures, the Launchpad showcases modern and contemporary installations within the Beaux-Arts architectural setting of the Dodson Loggia.

CONTEMPORARY SUCCESSES

Our contemporary art program continues to build momentum, making a positive impact and building solidarity across institutions nationally and globally.

In January, the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts awarded Assistant Curator of Contemporary Art & Programs Naz Cuguoglu a $50,000 Curatorial Research Fellowship, a highly regarded award for contemporary curators in America. Naz’s research will foster a conversation between local artists and the museum’s historic collection within a 2025 exhibition. This is the second award of its kind received by a curator at the Asian Art Museum; the first was awarded in 2020 to Head of Contemporary Art Abby Chen.

Abby also continues to garner impressive honors: she was invited by the Taipei Fine Arts Museum to curate the Taiwan Pavilion at the 60th annual Venice Biennale. Her contribution comprises a collaboration with pioneering video artist Yuan Goang-ming, whose work appeared in After Hope: Videos of Resistance at the Asian Art Museum in 2021. Abby is also the recipient of the 2024 National Art Education Association (NAEA)

Asian Art and Culture Interest Group (AACIG) Distinguished Art Educator Award. The NAEA AACIG is committed to identifying and promoting art education research and practices on Asian art, cultures, artists, and philosophies within global and cross-cultural perspectives.

Finally, Assistant Curator of Game and Technology Cheng Xu was recently celebrated for a project developed under the auspices of C/Change, an initiative of the Goethe-Institut San Francisco and Gray Area, funded by the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany. As part of the prestigious C/ Change’s second Creative R&D Lab cycle, Cheng was among five finalists whose projects build toward the future of digital cultural exchange. n

Image: Head of Contemporary Art Abby Chen and artist Yuan Goang-Ming. Courtesy of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum

HALLYU! THE KOREAN WAVE

SEP

27,

2024–JAN 6, 2025

THE AKIKO YAMAZAKI AND JERRY YANG PAVILION

How did South Korea — a country ravaged by war only a few decades prior — emerge in recent years as a 21st-century pop culture phenomenon? Discover why millions across the globe have fallen in love with Korean music, film, and fashion in Hallyu! The Korean Wave, the first major museum exhibition dedicated to South Korean pop culture. n

Hallyu! The Korean Wave is organized by the Asian Art Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Sustained support generously provided by the Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions. Created by the V&A — touring the world. Image: Saekdong by Darcygom. Photo by Jihoon Jung, courtesy Darcygom.

STARS ALIGNING

Arriving in October, portraits by artist Etsu Egami (b. Tokyo, 1994) of South Korean actors Sang Heon Lee (star of Netflix’s “XO Kitty”) and Lee Byung-hun (star of Netflix’s “Mr. Sunshine” and “Squid Game”) will be on view. Both portraits will be displayed concurrently in the Korean Gallery throughout the duration of Hallyu! The Korean Wave in the Yang Yamazaki Pavilion.

“These vibrant paintings highlight the impact of Korean art and pop culture on the global cultural scene, the collaboration that is possible between artists working in different fields, and the ways in which a new generation of young artists are mutually supporting each other,” says Assistant Curator of Korean Art Yoon-Jee Choi.

For updates on other exciting Hallyu!-related programs and events, please check the museum calendar and stay tuned to member e-news. n

Top: Rainbow-Sang Heon Lee, 2024, by Etsu Egami. Oil on canvas. Bottom: RainbowLee Byung-hun, 2024, by Etsu Egami. Oil on canvas. Courtesy of the artist.

Q&A WITH CHENG XU CURATOR FOR GAMES

AND

TECHNOLOGY

RAD is the precursor to a larger-scale exhibition that opens in 2025. How are the two related?

The 2025 show will present a radically new game experience: acclaimed Chinese American game artist Jenova Chen will turn the entire Yang Yamazaki Pavilion into a game you can walk through. The work we are doing for the 2025 exhibition is so new and so big, we have to run some tests ahead of time — both to test the technology and to gauge audience reception. RAD stands for Research and Development: we’ve transformed Lee Gallery into a space for this prototyping and testing, as well as a venue for performances and programs from local luminaries in the art-tech world.

RAD is unlike anything ever done before here at the Asian Art Museum. What makes it so unique and how can members participate?

I remember being so intrigued when I saw the exposed machine shop at the Exploratorium for the first time, or the moment I peeked into the storage at the Broad Museum in Los Angeles. RAD is the Asian Art Museum's peeking window: an opportunity to see what’s cooking and what’s new in the contemporary landscape

of immersive, technology-driven art. Members are encouraged to visit asianart.org/rad to stay apprised of upcoming events and beta testing opportunities in the RAD space.

Members will learn more about the 2025 exhibition in upcoming issues. What excites you about the show that you can share in the meantime?

Jenova’s game experience is all about connecting people on the emotional level and emphasizes that we all share something essential, despite our differences. This experimental, emotional journey is also a departure from art as objects, affirming the museum’s commitment to broadened art experiences while providing a platform for a diverse range of artists and mediums. From a technical perspective, we are setting a new standard in the entertainment industry — large-scale, interactive games rarely approach this level of fidelity! n

RAD: Asian Art Museum Research and Development is organized by the Asian Art Museum. Sustained support generously provided by the Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions and the Kao/Williams Contemporary Art Exhibitions Fund.

SOCIETY FOR ASIAN ART

2024 ANNUAL BOOK SALE

Thu, Apr 4 | 1– 8 PM (Thursday Night hours!)

Fri, Apr 5 | 10 AM– 5 PM

Sat, Apr 6 | 10 AM– 5 PM

Sun, Apr 7 | 10 AM– 5 PM (Free First Sunday!)

At this year’s special four-day event, thousands of books — including many collector's items — will be available at bargain prices. This year’s event includes both a Thursday night, when the museum remains open until 8 p.m., and a Free First Sunday. All sales benefit the museum's C. Laan Chun Library.

Selections include publications on A sian art, history, literature, religion, culture, cooking, novels, travel, textiles, jewelry, and more. This year’s rarities include a large collection of books on Southeast Asian Buddhist art and culture, including rare books by Emma C. Bunker on Cambodia, as well as a collection of albums of Indian miniature paintings.

The SAA Book Sale has raised more than $140,000 for the C. Laan Chun Library, one of the most comprehensive research libraries on Asian art and culture in the country.

Tell your Friends! n

Photograph © Peter Sinton.

DODSON LOGGIA

STUDENT ARTS FESTIVAL APR 4–29

The San Francisco Unified School District Citywide Youth Arts Festival returns to the Asian Art Museum for the first time since 2020, showcasing student artwork from around the city. An annual event put on by SFUSD and in collaboration with local art venues across San Francisco, the festival is an opportunity for students to share their artistic vision and unique perspectives, and to connect to their communities.

Visual arts by students from 20 surrounding K–12 schools will be on view in Bowes Court. On Saturday, Apr. 27, Samsung Hall will host a full day of student dance and musical performances. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the voices and vision of young artists in our community. n

CALLING ALL STORYTELLERS:

ENGAGE CHILDREN THROUGH STORIES AND ART

The Asian Art Museum is looking for volunteers to engage children through stories and art and join a team of storytellers. Once trained, you’ll come to the museum two to three times a month to share your talents with school groups and families. You’ll learn to tell fun stories from a variety of Asian cultures that make art exciting. You’ll also be part of a warm and inviting community of lifelong learners and friends who have enriched the experience of museum visitors.

Storyteller training starts in August of 2024 and includes a $25 training fee. Throughout the academic year, we will study traditional tales and storytelling skills, as well as methods for engaging children using art objects related to the stories. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to become a Storyteller!

For information and application, email trainings@aamsf.org with questions. n

Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

Photograph © Justin Yee.

PRIVATE DOCENT TOUR

PERSONALIZE YOUR GROUP’S NEXT VISIT

Treat yourself and fellow art lovers to a private docent-led tour exploring the museum’s world-class collections or special exhibitions. Your day at the museum can be fun, educational, and relaxing; we’ll make sure your tour will appeal to your group’s preferences and interests.

Members receive a 20% discount on docent fees and save with discounted ticket rates for groups of 10 or more (daily ticket allotments apply for free tickets). Please note: we require a twoweek lead time to effectively plan your private docent tour and/ or group visit.

For more details (or for inquiries), call 415.581.3740 or contact members@asianart.org. We look forward to helping you plan a tour! n

ENJOY VIP EXPERIENCES WITH JADE AND NEXUS

Jade Circle members ($5,000) receive complimentary access to customized docent-led tours for 10 while Nexus supporters ($25,000) may invite up to 20 guests. We invite you to deepen your engagement with the Asian Art Museum by enjoying exclusive behind-the-scenes offerings, including travel opportunities, all year round. Contact the Jade Circle and Nexus concierge to learn more by calling 415.581.3794 or by email at jadecircle@asianart.org or nexus@asianart.org n

JUL 24–27

VISIT LOS ANGELES WITH THE MUSEUM

We are happy to announce that registration is now open for the Jade Gold trip to Los Angeles. Please join Assistant Curator of Korean Art Yoon-Jee Choi to discover the international appeal of K-pop at KCON LA 2024 and explore the local arts, tastes, and culture of LA’s Koreatown and beyond.

This year’s trip includes VIP experiences including gallery, museum, and private collection visits. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of contemporary K-culture in anticipation of this fall’s Hallyu! The Korean Wave exhibition, opening Sep. 27.

Stay in beautiful accommodations, dine at mouth-watering restaurants, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience at KCON LA 2024. Hotel stays, ground transportation, and some meals are included in the trip cost. Members are responsible for their own airfare. For more information and the full itinerary, or to reserve your spot, please contact jadecircle@asianart.org.

Space is limited and registrations and deposits must be received by Apr. 30, so reserve your spot as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you in Los Angeles! n

CIRCLE

MAKE AN IMPACT

Step into the Jade Circle for a deeper experience of Asian art and culture. Enhance your museum experience with insider access to exhibitions, events, and the private donor lounge, as well as special opportunities to connect with curators, museum leaders and fellow museum supporters. As a Jade Circle member, you’ll make a meaningful impact on our diverse community, strengthening the museum’s vision of making Asian and Asian American art and culture essential to everyone.

For more information, contact us at jadecircle@asianart.org, call 415.581.3740, or visit us online. n

SAVE THE DATE JADE

NEXUS, JADE CIRCLE, AND PATRON MEMBERS

Annual Preview Luncheon

Wed, Jul 10, 2024 | 11 AM to 1 PM

Be the first to know what’s coming to the museum by reserving your place at the Annual Preview Luncheon, where curators will provide insight into our highly anticipated special exhibitions and commissions. Staff will also offer updates on all the latest museum news.

Invitations will be delivered by email. To update your email address on file, please contact members@asianart.org n

HALLYU! THE KOREAN WAVE

GALA AND AFTER PARTY

SAVE THE DATE

Thu, Oct 24, 2024

Gala Co-Chairs: Salle Yoo and Varsha Rao

Gala Honorary Chair: Miky Lee

Proceeds from this sensational event support the Asian Art Museum’s mission to celebrate, preserve, and promote Asian and Asian-American art and cultures for local and global audiences. More information to be announced soon! n

For sponsorship or table inquiries, contact gala@asianart.org.

REMEMBERING

JOAN DANFORTH

Long-serving Asian Art Commissioner and Asian Art Museum Foundation trustee Joan Danforth valued the importance of planned giving. Because Joan understood how meaningful legacy gifts are and the impact they have on ensuring the future of the Asian Art Museum, she stepped in to chair the museum’s first planned giving committee and helped build our program.

Joan was a dedicated patron with a deep understanding of how art can build bridges between individuals and communities. In her estate plan, she generously donated more than $3 million

to create an unrestricted endowment fund, ensuring that we can continue to make an impact in the way she cared most about: building and sustaining a dedicated community of Asian art enthusiasts. Joan will be remembered for her ready laugh, generous spirit, and commitment to the arts, social justice, and cultural knowledge.

We remember Joan and invite you to consider following her example with a gift to the museum in your will or by beneficiary designation. n

Q&A WITH

RICHARD B. GUMP SOCIETY MEMBER LEE OKUMOTO

Lee Okumoto was born in South Korea, moved to Japan, and then immigrated to the United States as a teenager. We met with Lee recently to discuss her commitment to the Asian Art Museum’s Gump Society, the role the museum plays in her life, and how that informed her decision-making when it came time to think about estate plans.

What drew you to the Asian Art Museum?

I love art and architecture. When I first came to the museum as a young professional, it was still in Golden Gate Park. I was active in the Korean group and chaired the Chuseok silent auction for one year. The Asian Art Museum provided me a place of community and a place to engage with other people’s perspectives through art.

In addition, I feel comfortable at the Asian Art Museum in a way that I don’t at other museums. My culture is represented. It’s like I’ve come home.

Do you have a favorite museum experience?

The special exhibitions are always intriguing, especially when toured with a very knowledgeable docent. A good docent helps me learn, and then I can come back on my own with that knowledge. I like to know the background story because it deepens my understanding and positively impacts my life.

What inspired you to make the museum a part of your legacy?

It came naturally for me to include the museum in my estate plan. When I was meeting with my attorney, he told me to think about what grounded me when I immigrated to this country and helped me focus on being a good human being. It was an easy decision to make the Asian Art Museum a part of my legacy. The arts bring me back to the basic questions: Why am I here? Why now? I want to give back what I received to contribute to the growth and health of the museum for the next generations. n

Join Lee Okumoto in the Gump Society by making a gift to the museum in your will. With your gift, you will provide for the financial security of the museum and ensure that its collections, exhibitions, and programs continue for future generations. Gump Society members are honored at an annual event, invited to special events, and recognized in the museum’s donor report. Contact Director of Individual and Legacy Giving Kate McNulty at 415.581.3683 or kmcnulty@asianart.org for more information.

SPRING ARTISAN MARKET BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Saturday, May 4 | 9 to 10 AM (member early access)

Saturday, May 4 | 10 AM to 6 PM (open to all)

Sunday, May 5 | 10 AM to 6 PM (open to all)

Looking for a special gift for mom, dad, grad, or newlyweds?

The Boutique’s Spring Artisan Market is back, featuring dozens of local makers offering one-of-a-kind items including:

. Fashion & accessories — update your spring wardrobe.

. Jewelry — from traditional sparkle to unforgettable statement.

. Ceramics — glossy housewares and show-stopping centerpieces.

. Specialty food items — brighten up your pantry and your palate.

. Cards — express your hopes and dreams in style. n

BEYOND THE FAMILIAR A DEEPER LOOK AT THE COLLECTION

Much has changed at the Asian Art Museum in recent years. New curators and scholars are bringing fresh perspectives to collection objects, re-examining common assumptions and ideas about the history, provenance, and context of even our most well-known artifacts while also introducing new acquisitions to our audience.

Jo in us for 14 lectures to take a deeper dive into our favorites as well as new and undiscovered treasures. The Instructor of Record is none other than Chief Curator Rob Mintz, who has been working with our curatorial staff to develop a significantly different approach to talking about art. Lectures are tentatively planned for Aug. 23 through Nov. 22, 2024; please visit societyforasianart.org for a confirmed schedule of speakers and topics.

We welcome feedback about our lecture series; please direct comments to saa@societyforasianart.org. n

Join the Society for Asian Art

For more than 65 years, the Society for Asian Art (SAA) has been providing dynamic programs on Asian art and culture in our independent support of the Asian Art Museum. In addition to the Arts of Asia Lecture Series, SAA members enjoy literature and culture courses; visits to art galleries and artists’ studios; study groups; and opportunities to travel with scholars. To join, please visit societyforasianart.org.

Seated Buddha in meditation, approx. 1300–1400. The Avery Brundage Collection, B71S4. Photograph © Asian Art Museum. Top: The Melt, 2017, by Ang Tsherin Sherpa. Asian Art Museum, Museum purchase, Mortimer-Harvey Fund, 2017.44. © Tsherin Sherpa. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

SCENE AT THE ASIAN

The museum continued to unite art lovers from near and far this year, fostering connections between individuals and communities while sparking inspiration across generations. n

Revelers enjoy the Murakami: Monsterized opening celebration.

Murakami: Monsterized Gala co-chairs Harry and Sandra Cheung. Thanks to their leadership, the gala raised $1.65 million to support museum programs. Photo © Drew Altizer Photography.

Collect ‘em all! A guest displays his collection of Murakami trading cards, including new additions distributed at the museum during the final days of Murakami: Monsterized.

Fred Levin, Jay Xu, the Honorable Nancy Pelosi, and Paul Pelosi welcome Abbot Kobori Geppo of Kyoto’s Daitokuji Ryokoin Zen temple, the lender of Chestnuts and Persimmons, two masterworks displayed in The Heart of Zen

Assemblyman Phil Ting, Jay Xu, Dominic Ng, Mayor London Breed, Akiko Yamazaki, and Fred Levin celebrate the opening of the East West Bank Art Terrace. Photo: Ian Chin Photography.

Museum guests compare collectible Murakami trading cards offered at a special event during the final weeks of the exhibition. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

ASIAN ART MUSEUM FOUNDERS CIRCLE

On the 50th anniversary of its founding, the Asian Art Museum announced the creation of the Asian Art Museum Founders Circle (formerly known as the Avery Brundage Founders Circle) to recognize donors whose cumulative giving to the museum totals $1 million or more. The museum celebrated the charter members of the Asian Art Museum Founders Circle in 2016 and continues to welcome new individuals and entities to the distinguished group.

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation

Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin

Tateuchi Foundation

Barbara and Gerson Bakar

Estate of Dorothy J. Bakewell

Bank of America

Cori and Tony Bates+

The Bernard Osher Foundation

Marjorie W. Bissinger

Mr. Richard C. Blum and The Honorable Dianne Feinstein

Jane and Jack Bogart

Mr. and Mrs. William K. Bowes, Jr.

The Brayton Wilbur Foundation

Brooks–Mathews Foundation

California Arts Council

Eliza and Dean Cash

John S. and Sherry H. Chen

Ken Hao and Kathy Chiao

Carmen M. Christensen

Estate of C. Laan Chun

Columbia Foundation

Henry and Vanessa Cornell

Lloyd and Margit Cotsen

Crankstart

Joan L. Danforth

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation

Steve and Roberta Denning

Rajnikant T. and Helen Crane Desai

Dixon and Carol Doll

Family Foundation

Thao N. and Jerome L. Dodson+

The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation

East West Bank

Estate of Ernest and Virginia Esberg

Fred Eychaner

Sakurako and William Fisher

Estate of George and Denise Fitch+

Virginia and Timothy Foo

The Freeman Foundation

Tully and Elise Friedman

Richard N. Goldman

Sarah and William Hambrecht

Nancy B. Hamon

Marsha Vargas Handley

The Henry Luce Foundation

Institute of Museum and Library Services

Joan Diehl McCauley 1991 Trust

Kristine Johnson and Timothy Dattels

Maryellie and Rupert H. Johnson Jr.

Anne and Timothy F. Kahn

Kahng Foundation

The Korea Foundation

Koret Foundation

Estate of Robert L. & Lois M. Kreuzberger

KT Foundation – In memory of Grace Kase and Harry Tsujimoto

The Kuo Family

Mr. and Mrs. Chong-Moon Lee

Doris Shoong Lee and Theodore Bo Lee

Fred Levin & Nancy Livingston, The Shenson Foundation

Lui Foundation

Kumar and Vijaya Malavalli

Constance Corcoran Miller

Tina and Hamid Moghadam

Maura and Robert Morey

Estate of Dr. Forrest Mortimer and Stuart M. Harvey

National Endowment for the Humanities

Suno K. Osterweis

Richard and Marianne Peterson

Estate of Elton L. Puffer

The Robert H.N. Ho

Family Foundation

Samsung

Leslie T. Schilling and Alexander H. Schilling

Dr. Stephen A. Sherwin and Mrs. Merrill Randol Sherwin

Vijay and Ram Shriram, The Dhanam Foundation

Society for Asian Art

Ji Ing Soong

Estate of Mrs. Norma Stanberry

The Starr Foundation

Rosina and Anthony Sun

Estate of Masako M. Suzuki

Henri and Tomoye Takahashi

Target

Claire and M. Glenn Vinson

Jack and Susy Wadsworth

Wallis Foundation

Phyllis C. Wattis

Wells Fargo

William G. Irwin Charity Foundation

Diane B. Wilsey

Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang

Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Y. Yang

Richard and Fukan Yen

+ 2023 new members

ANNUAL DONORS

The Asian Art Museum gratefully acknowledges the following individuals for their generous annual support for exhibitions, programs, and special events during fiscal year 2023. This support, together with our Nexus and Jade Circle membership programs, allows us to thrive as a vibrant hub for discovery, education, and inspiration.

Contributions received from Jul. 1, 2022, to Jun. 30, 2023.

$100,000 and above

Eliza and Dean Cash

Harry and Sandra Cheung

Thao N. and Jerome L. Dodson

Fred Eychaner Fund

Stephen and Choongja Kahng

Fred Levin, The Shenson Foundation

Ram and Vijay Shriram, The Dhanam Foundation

William and Michelle Tai

Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang

Salle E. Yoo and Jeffrey P. Gray

Anonymous

$50,000 to $99,999

Michele and Joseph M. Alioto

Cori and Tony Bates

Kathy Bissinger

William Mathews Brooks

Vaishali Chadha and Family

Huifen Chan and Roelof Botha

Tianqiao and Chrissy Chen

Claudine Cheng

Cheney and Mary Cowles

Yogen and Peggy Dalal

Joan L. Danforth*

Steven and Roberta Denning

Dixon and Carol Doll

Family Foundation

Sakurako and William Fisher

Marsha Vargas Handley

Martha Sam Hertelendy

Charles Huang and Lillian Qian

Jennifer Ching-Yun Kao and R. Stanley Williams

Lata Krishnan and Ajay B. Shah

Mr. and Mrs. Chong-Moon Lee

Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Lee

Xiaojun Lee

Gorretti Lo Lui

Dipti and Rakesh Mathur

Lore Harp McGovern

Aaron Mendelsohn

Nanci Nishimura and Joseph Cotchett

Anjali and Sundar Pichai

Vasant and Sumati Prabhu

Merrill Randol and Stephen Sherwin

Varsha Rao and Cameron Poetzscher

John Sell

Rosina and Anthony Sun

Mindy Lin and Peter Sun

Cecilia Sze

Mary Mayer Tanenbaum

Jack and Susy Wadsworth

Ken and Ruth Wilcox

Songyee Yoon

Sally Shi and Hansong Zhang

Julia Zhen

Anonymous

$25,000 to $49,999

Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin

Tateuchi Foundation

Chip and Juliet Bergh

Patricia and Edwin

L.* Berkowitz

Dana and Ben Bisconti

Michael and Barbara Calbert

Tiffany and Jim Chang

Ms. Chaomei Chen and Dr. Yu Wu

Julia K. Cheng

Susan and John Diekman

George Fan

Winnie and Michael Feng

Sameer Gandhi and Monica Lopez

Ken Hao and Kathy Chiao

Michael and Ginger Hu

Kristine Johnson and Timothy Dattels

Anne and Timothy Kahn

Kiran K. Kapany

Bill Kim

Alexandra and Dennis Lenehan

John Maa, M.D.

Susan and Kevin McCabe

Mac and Leslie McQuown

Michelle and Robert Friend Foundation

Francis Mill

Leslie T. Schilling and Alexander H. Schilling

Tania and Michael Stepanian

Sanjay and Suniti Subhedar

Jane Chang Tom

Anita and Steven Westly

Jean and Hing Wong

Richard and Fukan Yen

Anonymous (3)

$15,000 to $24,999

Betty and Bruce Alberts

Midori and Paul Antebi

Paul A. Bartlett and Yumi Nakagawa

Mimi Gardner Gates

Dr. and Mrs. Richard H. Lee Jr.

Thomas and Beverly Marlow

Nion McEvoy and Leslie Berriman

Mary Frances Poh

Mr. P.A. Reque

Sack Family Fund

Sandra and R. David Schmaier

Robert K. Vincent and Yukari

Nakagawa Vincent

Glenn Vinson and Claire

Vinson

Anonymous

$10,000 to $14,999

Sara Abbasi and Sohaib Abbasi

Mr. Frank S. Bayley III*

Sandra C. Bessieres

Alexandra and Peter Caban

Iris S. Chan and Michael Chan, M.D.

Dr. Stephen R. Chun and Dr. Doris Sze Chun

Destino Fund

Jared Ede* and Fernan

de Zarate

Anne Ja Forbes

Beverly Galloway and Chris Curtis*

Pat Gordon

Robert C. Hermann

The Jennifer & Jacob Pritzker

Family Fund

Dr. Phyllis A. Kempner and Dr. David D. Stein

Walter Knoepfel

Bianca and Merlin Larson

David and Linda Lei

Ruth Murad

Oliver Nicholas

Patricia W. Fitzpatrick Fund

Crisanto and Evelyn Raimundo

Ursula E. Ralph

Alice and Bill Russell-Shapiro

Sophia Sheng

Ashok and Gita Vaish

Daphne and Stuart Wells

The Brayton Wilbur Foundation

Michael and Patrice Wilbur

William and Gretchen

Kimball Fund

$5,000 to $9,999

Dorrit Ahbel, M.D.

Trista Berkovitz and Stephen Pegors

Steven V. Bernard

Dr. Jeffrey R. and Brenda Bohn

Dr. Lynne Lopez Brewer

Mr. and Mrs. Alexander D. Calhoun

David and Karin Chamberlain

Lily and Riaz Moledina

Penelope Clark

Jo Ann B. Collins

Jay A. and Nadege Conger

Jane DeBevoise

Janet L. Dobrovolny

Margaret M. Dueringer

Ms. Margaret H. Edwards and Mr. William T. Espey

Pauline Eveillard and Douglas Gould

Reverend Richard G. Fabian and Mr. Stephen Holtzman

Dr. Vincent Fausone Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Andy Fisher

Ayame Flint

Virginia and Timothy Foo

Gloria S. Garaventa

Michael Garland and Virginia Coe

Mr. Donald Gibson

Friends enjoy boba drinks and good company on the East West Bank Art Terrace. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

Dessa P. Goddard

Ms. Kalena Gregory

James C. Gries

Michael Hackett-Hale

Margaret B. Handelman

Kathleen G. Henschel and John W. Dewes

Mr. and Mrs.* Austin E. Hills

George Y. Hong

Dr. Mary Hunt

Sung Jin and Frank Ingriselli

Ms. Nancy Jacobs

Jeffrey and Anne M. Katz

Mr. Eugene Kim and Ms. Christine Kim

Richard and Paola Kulp

Patricia Yin Li Kung

Randall E. Laroche and David G. Laudon

James and Katherine Lau

Timothy and Joy Light

Marcia Linn

Betty J. Louie

Arnold and Junko Low

Farah and Victor Makras

John* and Peggy Mathers

Joyce Hing McGowan

Mrs. Betty Meissner

Rhoda and Richard Mesker

Ms. Melly Metcalf

Virginia and Donald Meyer

Guy S. Miller and Alicia Loo

Dr. Robert Mintz and Dr. Beth Arman

Pete and Nicki Moffat

Michele A. Monson

Cathy and Howard Moreland

Lynne T. Ogata

Diane Ososke

Marianne H. Peterson

Lynn and Edward Poole

Gregory Potts

Ruth Quigley

Richard Raisler Foundation

Shelagh Rohlen

Mr. Dalfred E. Ross and Ms. Linda C. Lucas

William and Renée Rothmann

Collette and Peter Rothschild

John M. Sanger

Patricia and Edward Sham

Kirsten and Christopher Shilakes

Mary Lou Shott

Richard P. Shrieve & Yvonne Don

Ms. Jessica Silverman and Dr. Sarah Thornton

The Honorable Judge

Lillian Sing

Barbara Soong and Julius O. Young

Grace C. Spence

Susan Steer

Mr. Thomas C. Stoiber and Mrs. Diane J. Stoiber

Lucy Sun and Warren Felson

May Chen and K.M. Tan, M.D.

Mr. John K. Uilkema and Dr. Gail G. Uilkema

Mark Valentine

Liz A. Weingart

Faye Wilson

King Won and Linda Won

Dr. Colin & Mrs. Silvana Wong

Endora Hsia and Dennis Wong

Dandan Wu

Min Xiao

Lowell S. Young, M.D.

Candace Zander Kahn

Stephen and Connie Zilles

Anonymous (2)

$1,000 to $4,999

Sophie Lei Aldrich and Ted Aldrich

Colin Alexander and Ronald E. Albers

Ravinder K. Arora, M.D.

Ms. Orit Atzmon and Ms. Maia Shoham

Neaera and Edward Baer

Christy Bartlett and Ken Tuomi

James Bays

Mr. Robert Beadle

Stuart Berkowitz, Ph.D.

Peter and Margaret Boyer

Romana Bracco

Agnes V. Brenneman and Roger Edwards

Sean and Faith Bricmont

D. Ren Brown

Adrianne and Robert Burton

Terrie Campbell and James Henderson

Lyman and Carol Casey

Ms. Karen G. Castle

Thomas and Judith Cerny

Ms. Cordelia J. Chang

Donald and Eunice Chee

Ms. Hope Chen

Mr. and Mrs. Steve Chen

Yvonne and Ralph Cheng

Ravi and Monjula

Chidambaram

Eunice Childs

Craig and Noelle Chinn

Keting Chu

Sherman Chu and Ming Yeh

Lillian K. Chun and David H. Chun

Steven J. Cohen

Glenn and Dianne Colville

Carlotta Dathe

Mr. Philip S. Dauber and Mrs. Elayne R. Dauber

Kimmie Fitzpatrick Davis and Dr. Tyler W. Davis

Dr. Jane De Leon and Mr. Peter Horton

Blair Dean and Robert Cooter

Pamela Dekema and Richard Champe

Dvonia C. Dekker

Bonnie Demergasso

Helen Crane Desai

Mr. Yilun Ding

Jerry Dodson and Pat Dodson

Jad Dunning

Ms. Janet Eddleman

Mr. Robert A. Ellis and Ms. Jane W. Bernstein

Harry and Meredith Endsley

Jeanne and Frank Fischer

Alfred V. Fong

Helen Gan

Raj-Ann Gill

Malvina Gock-Chan and John Chan

Norman Goldfarb and Miriam Yelton

Hon Mai and Joseph Goodman

Frederick L. Gordon

Dorothy D. Gregor

Jan Gronski

James W. Haas

Ms. Theresa Haran

Mrs. Susan Harbison

Carole and John Harlow

Guests celebrate the new year at the museum’s annual Japanese New Year’s Bell-Ringing Ceremony in Samsung Hall. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

Ms. Sato Hashizume

Mr. Michael S. Hebel

Monica and Stephen Henderson

Kathryn Wilen Hobart

Mr. Robert E. Hom

Andrea L. Hong and James S. Parsons

Hing On Hsu

Kathy Huber

Thomas J. Hudak

Mrs. Lenora L. Jang

William and Nancy Kales

Mrs. Joyce Kami

The Keyes Sulat Family Fund

Maria Khine

Dr. Kumja Paik Kim

Rosalind and Sung-Hou Kim

Sachiko A. Kim and Machiko Akasaka

Mr. and Ms. Ken J. King

Etsuko Kobata and Derek Adelman

John P. Kouletsis

Tae Kyung Moon Kouzes and James Kouzes

Robin Laub

Dr. Ernest Lee and Dr. Letah Y. Lee

Nancy and Peter Lee

William K. Lee and Ellen Lee

Dr. Lai-Sung Eric Leung and Mrs. Kay-lee Leung

Jeff Levin

Cindy Li

Mr. Dave Lindsey

Jeffrey Lipkin and Kathleen Anderson

Beverly and Peter Lipman

Peter D. Lit

Catherine and Michael C. Liu

Rodney Loo

Carrie and Ronald Ludwig

Yin-Wah Ma and Rosser H. Brockman

Christiana and Charles Macfarlane

Eve Masonek

Ms. Nan McDowell

Leslie McKnew

Ernest McNabb

Linda Membreno

Dr. and Mrs. David J. Menke

Ms. Michelle Mercer and Mr. Bruce Golden

Lorna Meyer Calas

Elizabeth and Robert Meyer

Susan W. Mielke

Buffington Clay Miller and Christine Tieu

Margaret P. and William H. Moorhouse

Ruth Muschel and Gillies McKenna

Catherine S. Muther

Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Myers

Ms. Linda Nanbu

Jim Newman and Jane Ivory

Noga and Israel Niv

Robert Oaks and Fred Sheng

Mr. Clayton R. Ong and Mrs. Barbara M. Ong

Edmund W. Ow

Ms. Lorraine Y. Parmer and Ms. Lorilyn Parmer-Folks

Roland and Caryl Petersen

Gloria Pfister

Nancy Philie

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Price

Mr. and Mrs. Ajay Puri

Mr. Carl Quong and Mrs. Sandra Quong

Cheryl and Vincent Resh

Pamela and Richard Rigg

Linda Rineck

Arthur and Toni Rembe Rock

Mr. and Mrs. James L. Rogers

Arthur and Lois Roth

Pamela H. Royse

Gretchen Saeger

Dr. Catherine Sanger and Mr. Brandon Yoder

Dr. Emily J. Sano

Mr. Jason Seifer and Mr. Brian Ayer

Karen Serratoni

Bill Sevald

Megha Sharma and Kanav Hasija

Ingrid Lai and William Shu

Elvira Sidhu and Gursharan

Singh Sidhu

Matthew Simis and Michael Gray

Wendy Muse Sinek and Edward Sinek

Sher and Jean Singh

Peter and Beverly Sinton

Paul and Mary Slawson

Mr. Steve Smart and Mr. Javier Barreto

Barbara Sonnenblick

Jill Spangenberg Barakos and Jerome A. Barakos

Robert L. Speer and John Wong

Harise and Peter Staple

Mr. Charles M. Stockholm

Ms. Elaine H. Stutt

Mrs. Roselyne C. Swig

Mr. John C. Thoelecke and Mrs. Elza Wong-Thoelecke

Sean Tierney

Barbara and Clay Timon

Joaquim Trias and Yuka Ichijo

Paul Violich

Bruce and Fran Walker

Ms. Hsiao Chih Wang

Veronica Wang

Mr. Dennis D. White and Mr. Lawrence Wu

Pat Wilde

Mr. John R. Williams

Kirsten Wolfe and Andrew Brown

Ms. Eileen C. Wong

Ira G. Wong, M.D. and Eleanor W. Wong

Carol and Weldon Wong

Ms. Amy Woo

Dr. Olga F. Woo

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Wu

Roy J. Wu

Dr. John S. Yao

David and Elissa Yeske

Elaine L. Yip

Haifang Yun

Mei Z

Mrs. Lydia L. Zane

Shoucheng Zhang Foundation

Anonymous (3)

*Deceased

The Asian Art Museum gratefully acknowledges the following organizations for their generous annual support for exhibitions, programs, and special events during fiscal year 2023.

Contributions received from Jul. 1, 2022 to Jun. 30, 2023. Major funding is provided annually by the City and County of San Francisco.

$100,000 and above

Bei Shan Tang Foundation

The Bernard OsherFoundation

Koret Foundation

National Endowment for the Humanities

Kaiser Permanente

Target

The William K. Bowes, Jr. Foundation

$50,000 to $99,999

Bank of America

Bloomberg

C.M. Capital Corporation

Chanel

The Henri & Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation

National Endowment for the Arts

Neiman Marcus

Teiger Foundation

United States-Japan Foundation

$25,000 to $49,999

181 Fremont Residences

B Minor Studio

California Arts Council

GoFundMe

J.P. Morgan Private Bank

The Morrison & Foerster Foundation

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Society for Asian Art

$15,000 to $24,999

Alkeon Capital Management LLC

Cartier

CVC Advisors (U.S.) Inc.

Frank A. Campini Foundation

Franklin Templeton Investments

Grant Thornton

The Sato Foundation

Tan Family Education Foundation

Toshiba International Foundation

Wells Fargo Foundation

$10,000 to $14,999

Citadel

CDR Johnson Family Foundation

Dodge & Cox

J.W. and H.M. Goodman

Family Charitable Foundation

Perkins Coie

Prologis

Terra Foundation for American Art

Van Cleef & Arpels

$6,000 to $9,999

Delta Dental

Gensler & Associates

Atthowe Fine Art Services

The Japan Foundation

$3,000 to $5,999

Adyen San Francisco

The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel

Cathay Bank Foundation

Cooley LLP

Dolby Laboratories

Giorgio Armani

Golden Gate Private Equity, Inc.

Google, Inc.

John and Marcia Goldman Foundation

Sotheby’s

$1,000 to $2,999

Lisa & Douglas Goldman Fund

Mamie Moy Memorial Fund

Paul S. Nadler Family Charitable Trust

Gifts of Art

Master Chao Shao-An

Patricia Gordon

Kaitlin Hao

Krishnamurti Foundation of America

Eugenia Perez

Hilary Rand

Lorie G. Rice

Giorgio and Shelley Sorani

Mrs. Patricia H. Williamson

In-Kind Support

BEI Hotel San Francisco

Boucher Law

Squire Patton Boggs L.L.P.

Endowed Funds

The Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions

Arlene Schnitzer Endowed Fund for Chinese Art

Barbara and Gerson Bakar Curator of Chinese Art

Endowed Fund

Betty Bogart

Endowment Fund

The Brayton Wilbur Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Lawler Fund for Education

D. Graeme Keith Endowment for C. Laan Chun Library

The Desai India Endowment

Dodson Family Fund+

Dorothy, Thomas, and Marguerite Warren Fund

Ernest and Virginia Esberg Fund

The Forrest Mortimer and Stuart Harvey Fund for the Acquisition and Conservation of Asian Art

Gladys Klockars Barber Endowment Fund

James M. Gerstley Fund for International Exhibitions

Grace Kase Director of Education Fund

Joan Danforth Fund for Asian Art and Culture

John S. and Sherry H. Chen

Endowed Fund for Chinese Art and Programming

Kao/Williams Contemporary Art Exhibitions Fund

Korean Endowment Fund

Lawrence and Gorretti Lui Hyde Street Art Wall

Mural Fund

Lloyd Cotsen Japanese Bamboo Endowment

Lois and Robert Kreuzberger

Memorial Fund for Art Acquisition

Malavalli Family Fund

Mee Y. Chow Endowment

Mellon Foundation

Endowment for Head of Conservation

Olive Deming Memorial Fund

THANK YOU

Paul C. and Phyllis Wattis Fund for Chair of S.E. Asian Art

Paul E. Miller Endowment for Publications

Dr. Phyllis A. Kempner and Dr. David D. Stein Endowment Fund

Phyllis C. Wattis General Endowment Fund

Richard B. Gump Fund Society for Asian Art Endowment Fund

The Starr Fund

Stuart M. Harvey Fund

William Randolph Hearst Endowment for Education

Richard B. Gump Society legacy gifts support research for exhibitions, free admission to schoolchildren, conservation of works of art, and the museum’s highest priorities.

Gump Society Members

Dr. Robert Acker

Anne M. Adelmann

Dorrit Ahbel

Sophia Lei Aldrich and Theodore Aldrich

Anthony Alfidi

Mrs. and Mr. Jody Arens

Barbara Bakar

Ms. Nancy E. Bardoff

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Bassett

Mrs. Carole L. Becker

Ms. Billie Becker-Bem

Jody E. Berke

Kathy Bissinger

Dr. Phyllis B. Blair

Mr. Gerry A. Blunt

D. Ren Brown

Don Buhman

Mrs. Pauline Chang

Cordelia Chang

Dr. Michael Chang

Dinny Winsor Chase

Ms. Agnes Chen Brown

Alan F. Chow

Patty S. Chu and Colbert T. Dare

Dr. Stephen R. Chun and Dr. Doris Sze Chun

Joyce H. Clark

William and Diane Clarke

Glenn and Dianne Colville

Mrs. Katharine Comstock

Dauna R. Currie

Ms. Martha Debs

Helen Crane Desai

Carl and Meredith Ditmore

Jeanne Dorward

Judith and Robert L. Duffy

Jared Ede* and Fernan de Zarate

Trudy Ehrenfeld

Reverend Richard G. Fabian

Richard M. Fitzgerald and Victor A. Perez

Peter J. Flagg

Nancy G. Freeman

Walter Jared Frost and David Salman

Ms. Gallagher and Dr. Wood

Ms. Beverly Galloway and Mr. Chris Curtis*

Dr. Elizabeth Green-Sah

Mr. James C. Gries

Charles and Ginger Guthrie

Charles E. and Anthia L. Halfmann

Renee R. Hall

Margaret B. Handelman

Marsha Vargas Handley

Mrs. Micheline Handon

Dr. Gloria M. Hing

Gordon Holler

Elizabeth H. Huchberger

Wray Humphrey

Marie and Harold Hyman

Ms. Julie Derby Jaecksch

Dr. Ronald G. Jan

Ms. Sandra N. Jeong

Robert M. Johnson

Dr. Phyllis A. Kempner and Dr. David D. Stein

Sally Ketchum

Bill Kim

Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Kirby

Ludmila Kisseleva-Eggleton and Peter Eggleton

Mr. Henry J. Kleinhenz

Thomas Knapp

Walter Knoepfel

Aman I. Kumar

Benjamin and Wendy Leong

Barbara and Warren Levinson

Felice Liang

Dr. Paul Lifton

Timothy and Joy Light

Marcia Linn

Ms. Karina K. Lok

Yin-Wah Ma and Rosser H. Brockman

Marilyn E. MacGregor

Mr. James D. Marver

John* and Peggy Mathers

Karyl M. Matsumoto

Susan and Kevin McCabe

John McCallister

Dr. Patricia J. McEveney

Malcolm McHenry

Judi A. McManigal

Kate McNulty

Patrick E. McSweeney

Betty J. Meissner

Bob Merjano

Virginia and Donald Meyer

J. Sanford Miller

Mr. Lawrence Mock and Ms. Chris Ahn

Cathy and Howard Moreland

Ms. Ann M. Mullis

Ms. K. Marie Nelson

Mr. Jeffrey A. Nigh

Marnay O’Neal

Ms. Lee Okumoto

Diane Ososke

Michael J. Pascua

Prof. John V. B. Perry

Greg L. Pickrell and Evelyn Richards

Mary Frances Poh

Gregory Potts

Marjo and Al Price

Ms. Ruth Quigley

Merrill Randol and Stephen Sherwin

Ronald D. Rattner

Joan D. Reagan and Dominic Gattuso Jr.

Mr. P.A. Reque

Pamela H. Royse

Louise A. Russell

Jordan H. Sachs and Jeannie Sack

Dr. Emily J. Sano

Mr. Joseph Saunders

Mary M. Schiffmann

Midori H. Scott

John J. Shaak

Dr. Kathleen O. Slobin

Paul and Barbara Sonnenblick

Robert L. Speer and John Wong

Marilyn Spiegl

Susan Steer

Rosina and Anthony Sun

Susan K. Tanner

Michael E. Tully

Mr. John K. Uilkema and Dr. Gail G. Uilkema

Glenn Vinson and Claire Vinson

Ms. Stephanie Waldman

Dr. and Mrs. Ralph J. Watson

Daphne and Stuart J. Wells

Tim Whalen

Judy Wilbur

Michelle Wilcox and Mr. Robert F. Kuhling, Jr.

Charlene F. Williams

William E. Wilson

Brenda J. and William

L. Winston

Prof. John Wood

Connie and Stephen Zilles

Anonymous (8)

Estate and Trust Gifts

Clark Lyle Trust

Estate of Marion Gleitzman Bacciocco

Estate of Thomas and Betty Belina

Estate of William Cawley

Estate of George and Denise Fitch

Frederic S. Whitman Trust

Milton J. Mosk Trust

Estate of Madelon L. Palma

Taking a closer look at Into View: New Voices, New Stories. Photograph © Asian Art Museum.

FEATURED MEMBER EVENTS

We’re always planning new events and programs for you to enjoy as a member of the Asian Art Museum. Events take place in person at the museum unless otherwise noted. Events may change due to unforeseen circumstances; please visit the online calendar for a full and regularly updated schedule.

APRIL

17 / WEDNESDAY

Phoenix Kingdoms

Donor Reception

Jade Circle, Nexus, and exhibition sponsors

18 / THURSDAY

Phoenix Kingdoms

Member Preview and Reception

1–8 PM

Open to all members; tickets required

19 / FRIDAY

Phoenix Kingdoms

Opening Day Tickets required

20 / SATURDAY

Phoenix Kingdoms

Member Opening Celebration

Open to Rhino Club and members at all levels; tickets required

MAY

4–5 / SAT–SUN

Artisan Market

Cha May Ching Boutique

16 / THURSDAY

Curator Tour of Into View: New Voices, New Stories with curator Naz Cuguoglu and artist Jenifer K Wofford Open to Jade Circle and Nexus members

19 / SUNDAY

Creative Currents: Celebrating AAPI Art & Collaboration

1–5 PM

Family art activities, AAPI-focused tour, screening of Ala Ebtekar: Luminous Ground, and panel discussion with Ala Ebtekar, Dave Young Kim, and Jenifer K Wofford

Open to the public

JULY

10 / WEDNESDAY

Annual Preview Luncheon

Patron, Jade Circle, and Nexus members

24–27 / WED–SAT Domestic Travel Trip to Los Angeles

Jade Circle Gold and Nexus members

ONGOING MEMBERS-ONLY DOCENT TOURS

Attend our regularly occurring Members-Only Docent Tours, held on the first Monday at 1:30 PM and third Saturday at 10:30 AM of each month. Reservations are highly recommended and are available online.

VIRTUAL LECTURE SERIES (Wednesdays)

4/10 Arts Across Asia

5/8 Phoenix Kingdoms: The Last Splendor of China’s Bronze Age

6/12 Expressions of Gender

7/10 Hidden Meanings in Chinese Art

8/14 Timeless Traditions

9/11 Glorious Civilizations of Southeast Asia

MUSEUM HOURS

Thu 1–8 PM Fri–Mon 10 AM–5 PM

NEW MUSEUM HOURS

Tue & Wed Closed

Visit asianart.org for additional closings and special hours, and check calendar.asianart.org for updates.

asianart.org

@asianartmuseum

Guests at the opening of the East West Bank Terrace. Photo © Ian Chin Photography.

SHARE YOUR IDEAS

Dear reader,

Thank you for being a valued part of our museum community. This is our first-ever test of a fully digital issue, delivering the most up-to-date content to you in an environmentally-friendly format. Do you have ideas or suggestions for future issues? Your feedback helps our membership team continue to deliver benefits that are meaningful and useful to you. Please let us know what you think.

I appreciate you taking a few minutes to share your input with the museum so we can plan for your member benefits in the year ahead.

With gratitude,

Danielle Hobart Director of Membership