Event organiser Akemi Solloway today announced two special guests for the upcoming Japanese Art Festival being held at the Richmond Adult Community College in London on 28th February and 1st March.
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Supported by the Anglo-Japanese Anime, Manga and Culture Association (AJAMCA) and a part of the Japan-UK 150 celebrations, special guests at the Japanese Art Festival include authors Helen McCarthy (Hayao Miyazaki: Master of Japanese Animation, co-author of The Anime Encyclopedia: A Guide to Japanese Animation Since 1917) and Paul Gravett (Manga: 60 Years of Japanese Comics).
“I’m excited to offer visitors to the festival a chance to experience an ancient and exotic culture as well as try their hand at traditional arts and crafts and view martial arts performances. Indeed the sole purpose of organising the event is to bring a piece of Japan to suburban London.” Akemi Solloway, a lecturer in traditional and modern Japanese culture, commented. “I’m absolutely delighted that Helen and Paul will be attending the event.”
With a packed weekend, visitors to the event will be able to view displays of traditional Japanese martial arts and taiko drums and manga and anime inspired art. Those wanting a more hands-on approach can have a go at workshops on shodo (the art of Japanese calligraphy) and how to wear kimono as well as the opportunity to take part in manga drawing workshops.
As well as a fashion show being held on Saturday night, there will also be an afterhours party hosted by J-Pop Go and featuring the latest and greatest J-Pop and anime hits. Tickets can be bought online at www.japaneseartfestival.com at a cost of £4.00, however they can also be bought on the door for £5.00.
Throughout the weekend, there will be a chance to meet with and see the work of up and coming artists including Umisen-Yamasen and sample authentic Japanese food and drink in the form of sake and obento. Dealers for the event include United Publications, Japan Centre and Genki Gear with more to be announced over the coming weeks.
The Japanese Art Festival offers free entry to all and opens its doors at midday on Saturday 28th February.
Full information, including times and events, can be found at the official Japanese Art Festival: www.japaneseartfestival.com
