Media Advisory

To celebrate its 25 years of groundbreaking exhibitions and achievements in Asian art, the Smithsonian's Arthur M. Sackler Gallery announces a week of public events, exhibitions, and gala celebrations, welcoming a crowd of international arts and culture enthusiasts to the nation's capital. During a Nov. 27 reception, media can preview special exhibitions, mingle with artists and authors, and glimpse into the Sackler's next 25 years.

Highlights of the public events include an "explosion event" by Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang, marking a new partnership with U.S. State Department's Art in Embassies; "Pure Land," an immersive digital experience on view for the first time in North America; a lecture by Glenn Lowry, director of MoMA; a panel with contemporary Chinese artist Xu Bing; a performance by popular Arab vocalist Karima Skalli, and a 25th birthday celebration and Asian Arts and Culture Book Fair featuring free cupcakes, art activities, and author talks and book signings by writers such as Azar Nafisi, Mary McFadden, Nurhan Atasoy, Helen Philon, and Sanjay Patel.

Space is limited; media should RSVP to PressAsia@si.edu by Monday, Nov. 26 and notify staff in advance of any recording and filming needs. Requests for one-on-one interviews must be made in advance with the museum's press office.

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