Shumei Arts Council of America

The Shumei Arts Council of America, Inc. was created in early 1998 to enrich the cultural life of the Pasadena and Los Angeles communities and to foster a deeper appreciation of the arts, especially among young people.

They are committed to bringing concerts of the highest quality, as well as unique exhibitions and lectures to Shumei Hall, Pasadena, so that everyone, particularly the children/youth, can explore and experience the higher realms of artistic expression. Their mission is based on the belief that art can enlighten the hearts and minds of human beings, and that through this transformation our community will flourish as well.

Current exhibit, Origins: a special art exhibition featuring Harold O’Conner and Polly Barton. The genesis of all civilization is marked by the birth of a common literature and common styles of arts, crafts, music, and religion. These elements define a society and give it its identity. The Shumei Arts Council wishes to show the harmonizing effects of cultural affinities by tracing to their origins – the basic human condition that all people share and celebrate. We believe that art must constantly return to its origins in order to be alive and new. On exhibit through January 10, 2010.

Upcoming exhibit: Buddha’s Smile by Daifu Wada, March 5 – April 17, 2010. Daifu Wada is a calligrapher, painter and woodblock print artist who lives in Tokyo, Japan. He began studying calligraphy in 1975 under Daiou Yamasaki and then Daiun Ino for 7 years. After retiring from his regular job at a bank, Daifu has focused on creating his own unique art style, expressing his world as an artist. His motifs are figures of Buddha and the sutras. Through his artworks, Daifu has strived to connect with a higher presence as well as fellow human beings, and the resulting creations are representative manifestations of his prayer.

Shumei Hall Gallery.
2430 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena. (626) 584-8841.  Website: www.shumeiarts.org    Open: Mondays through Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Sundays, by appointment.  Cost: Free.