The allure of "kai" lies in its ability to blur the boundaries between the known and the otherworldly, inviting contemplation of the unseen forces that shape human experience. "Kai" not only sparks curiosity but also serves as a reminder of the profound respect for nature and the acknowledgment of forces beyond human control.
Project Category: Past events
Religion & Spirituality in Contemporary Art
During this talk, looking at a selection of artists working across different mediums, we will explore how religion and spirituality have been addressed by contemporary artists between the 1950s and today.
Vanitas: a matter of life and death
This talk will look at the theme of ‘vanitas’ (the emptiness of the material world and the presence of death) in the history of art to better understand how past cultures have thought about the impermanence of life and how this type of thinking leads to a greater understanding of a life worth living.
Yokai: Supernatural Entities in Japanese Culture
During this lecture, we will also explore the cultural significance of yokai in Japanese society, their embodiment of fears, desires, societal beliefs and how they have influenced various aspects of Japanese culture, from art and literature to festivals and traditions.
Poetry Reading: transcending boundaries
Join us as we delve into literary works and enjoy masterpieces read out loud by amazing actor - Matthew Peter-Carter! Our theme for December explores transcendental experience.
Japanese Calligraphy: unification
Join our next Japanes ecalligraphy session focusing on kanji 'unification'. The concept of "統" underscores the Japanese cultural values of unity, synergy, and the artful orchestration of diverse elements to create a harmonious and flourishing whole.
What do we owe to future generations?
The choices and actions of the current generation will reverberate through the lives of future generations. Should we factor future generations into our decision-making? If so, how should we go about this? What is it that we owe them?
Contemporary Artists Responding to a Changing World & New Technologies
In this session we will look at how artists since the 1960s until present day, have been exploring the changing world around them and specifically embracing or critiquing rising technologies.
Language Evolution: Tracing the Transformation of Chinese Society through its Lexicon
Immerse yourself in an insightful exploration of the dynamic evolution of the Chinese language and discover how shifts in lexicon mirror the changing face of Chinese society.
The future of work – is paid work inevitable?
With advancements in technology and automation, there have been discussions about the potential for a post-scarcity economy where basic needs can be met without traditional paid work. Is this inevitable?