Debunking the Western vision of Geisha girls as prostitutes.

[gypsywitch]

This will be a wonderful exhibit and I am really looking forward to going!


Geisha: Beyond the Painted Smile
Step through the myth, past the stereotype, and into the exclusive world of Japanese geisha. View a stunning array of more than 130 artworks including kimono, paintings, prints, photographs, and more—plus exquisite personal accessories worn and used by geisha. Themes explored include cultural perceptions of geisha; the reality of geisha culture—from the emergence of geisha as artists and entertainers to the aesthetics of the profession; and the day-to-day lives and work of geisha today. Don't miss Geisha: Beyond the Painted Smile—the Asian Art Museum's captivating exhibition exploring one of the most compelling yet misunderstood Japanese icons.

When: June 25 - September 26, 2004
Where: Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco
More Information: http://www.asianart.org/geisha.htm

 

[LovetoGiveRoses]

I'll be in Tokyo next week. I'll let you know what I find out in my personal investigation!

 

[Sinful Minx]

I bet that will be a wonderful exhibit

 

[sweet soft kiss]

I would love to see that... maybe they will bring it south to LA after San Francisco...

The book Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, although a novel was a very compelling look at the inner life of a geisha. Apparently the subject matter was researched for 10 years, and it certainly had a ring of authenticity to it. If you haven't read it, you might want to get a copy before (or after) the exhibition.

 

[eagleyez]

I would love to see that... maybe they will bring it south to LA after San Francisco...

The book Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, although a novel was a very compelling look at the inner life of a geisha. Apparently the subject matter was researched for 10 years, and it certainly had a ring of authenticity to it. If you haven't read it, you might want to get a copy before (or after) the exhibition.

great book!!

 

[cybergirly]

I would love to see that... maybe they will bring it south to LA after San Francisco...

The book Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, although a novel was a very compelling look at the inner life of a geisha. Apparently the subject matter was researched for 10 years, and it certainly had a ring of authenticity to it. If you haven't read it, you might want to get a copy before (or after) the exhibition.

I read it not to long ago and I have to agree. It was a very moving book.

 

[Le Jacquelope]

I would love to see that... maybe they will bring it south to LA after San Francisco...

The book Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden, although a novel was a very compelling look at the inner life of a geisha. Apparently the subject matter was researched for 10 years, and it certainly had a ring of authenticity to it. If you haven't read it, you might want to get a copy before (or after) the exhibition.

Wasn't there an American woman who became a Geisha once?

I've known forever and a day Geisha girls were not prostitutes.

 

[Bob Peale]

Wasn't there an American woman who became a Geisha once?

Liza Dalby - the only foreigner ever to have become a geisha

 

[gypsywitch]

Yes, I know of that book. Sounds like a must do.

 

[gypsywitch]

*mornin' bump*

 

[just pet]

Great book

I'm with SSK
I do hope it wanders into L.A.

 

[mrsmiawallace]

You have to read Memoires of a Geisha. If nothing else, it is a great novel and an easy read.

That looks like an amazing exhibit.

 

[Dixon Carter Lee]

There's a myth that Geisha girls are prostitutes? I don't think that's a common western perception. I think the impression is more that they're antiquated subservient painted dogs with really good manners and tiny feet.

 

[gypsywitch]

Would anyone like to comment of the sexual use for those tiny feet?


Maybe I can find a picture.