Looking at Art

Students will practice close looking and writing skills through crafting poems inspired by Chiura Obata’s natural landscapes.

Carlos Villa Biography and Lesson Plans

Whirling Snow on the River Bank, 1639, by Lan Ying (1585–1664). China; Ming dynasty (136–1644). Hanging scroll; ink on silk. Transfer from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Gift of Mrs. Austin Hills, B69D56.

Scene from The Storehouse of Loyalty (Chushingura), 1806, by Hokusai (1760–1849). Japan. Edo period (1615–1868). Woodblock print, ink and colors on paper. Gift of Japanese Prints from the Collection of Emmeline Johnson, Donated by Oliver and Elizabeth Johnson, 1994.45.

Biography and lesson plans

The lessons below increase in the level of analytical thinking required of the students, with Lesson 1 being accessible to all grade levels and the final lesson, Lesson 5, being more appropriate for Grades 9-12+.

Creating opportunities for youth involvement at the Asian Art Museum, Art Speak engages young artists ages fourteen to eighteen who are interested in Asian art and culture, enjoy exploring new and different ideas, are self-motivated and independent but work well with others, and feel comfortable interacting with the public. From manga to Ming to samurai, Art Speak is a dynamic program that grows from year to year with each season offering new and exciting opportunities for creation and collaboration.

Note: This video does not include audio.
The exhibition, “Emperors’ Treasures: Chinese Art from the National Palace Museum, Taipei” at the Asian Art Museum (from 6/17-9/18/16) focuses on Chinese imperial taste over more than 1,000 years, during which Chinese political borders changed dramatically. This video highlights some of those changes.