Asian Arts Festival Turns 25
Aya Murata
Celebrated from mid-April to early May, the 25th Annual Asian Arts Festival included a film screening of Linsanity and talk with director Evan Jackson Leong; the Southeast Asian Fiesta, with performances by a Cambodian and Vietnamese dance troupe and a Filipino Rondalla, followed by a special buffet; and a presentation by Glee star Harry Shum Jr. Festivities culminated with a bazaar and a talent and fashion show in Kemper Auditorium. Several guest visits, including Shum’s, were made possible by Abbot Academy Association grants.
Leaders and members of the Southeast Asian Club, shown here setting up their booth at the Asian Arts Bazaar, include ( from left) Bach Hoang ’15, Darren Ty ’16, Evelyn Liu ’15, Claire Jacobson ’15, Bianca Navarro-Bowman ’15, and Korrawee “June” Pruegsanusak ’14.
Palfrey Takes a Stand with squares of “campus wood” from trees that once stood near Bulfinch, the library, and Bartlet Hall. Both desks, made of black walnut, were delivered on September 8.
Uninspired by the metal standing desks offered at most office furniture stores, administrative assistant Belinda Traub contacted master furniture maker Strother Purdy ’85, who, in 2012, crafted numerous tables for Bulfinch Hall (see spring 2013 Andover). Purdy’s standing desk design is simple but elegant. He also created a matching traditional desk—inlaid
“I’m deeply grateful to Strother for his exquisite craftsmanship and care,” said Palfrey. “These desks, using wood recovered from our own campus and crafted by one of our own, already feel like a part of the fabric of our history.” Non Sibi and Youth from Every Quarter are carved into opposite ends of the sitting desk.
Photos by Gil Talbot
Tradition and innovation can even apply to furniture. Head of School John Palfrey has wanted a standing desk for ages. Not only is it healthier to stand instead of sit, but a standing desk also suits his busy schedule; he can write quick notes or check his devices before heading out the door.
Andover | Fall 2014
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