By snoadmin
The “Tale of Genji” bloomed on Friday night at the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden where guests experienced the joys of Japanese culture through the 11th century Heian period.
Guests were greeted by the melodic sounds of a koto harp performance courtesy of the Awaya Koto Conservatory.
Coreen Neary said the music was “absolutely beautiful.”
Visitors strolled through the garden as they drifted away to the soothing sounds popular in the Heian era. Con Kearney, a member of the garden, enjoyed the way the light lit up the swirling patterns etched on the gravel in the hidden Zen garden. “There’s nothing not to like… [The garden] is very relaxing and pleasant,” Kearney said.
Thirteen Kimono teachers were dressed in vibrant kimonos. They answered the questions of onlookers with the help of translators. Mayumi Maruoka, a kimono dresser said “The art of kimono can be learned anytime. First they must learn how to wear kimono by themselves and then they go to school.”
As night fell the garden was illuminated under soft lights. Alison Redfoot, assistant director of education, wanted guests to “experience the “Tale of Genji” through the garden setting.” The night sky is an important element because it captures the essence of the Heian era, she explained.
Heian literature expert Hiroaki Sera from Shikoku University in Tokushima, Japan began the festivities with a reading of a “Beautiful Night.” The red platform stage was framed by bamboo poles and glowing under the light of three round lanterns. Sheer ivory fabric hung loosely from the poles.
Sera noted that this year marks the 1000th anniversary of “The Tale of Genji.” It was completed around 1021 A.D. and is believed to be the first novel ever written. The book is unique because it is written by a woman, Lady Murasaki Shikibu who plunges into intricate character personalities and motives. The plot spans over generations and discusses the trials and tribulations of love.
“There are events going on in Japan to celebrate this anniversary,” Sera said.
Redfoot gave an introduction to the “Tale of Genji” since many people are unfamiliar the piece of literature. She explains that the costumes are unique to Heian culture because Japanese culture varies in each time period.
Mio Mitsuisho, a psychology major, volunteered as a student translator for the first time. “I’ve never seen these costumes before. [The event] is a good way for me to learn since I am Japanese.”
Kimono dressers finally showed the artful technique of kimono dressing. “When I stepped into this garden I saw beautiful greens…I truly believe I’m in a Japanese garden with the lights flowing over the water,” began Shizuko Seo, Master kimono teacher for 38 years. A kimono symbolizes her life and she wears one everyday.
While demonstrating the art of kimono dressing, Seo explained that the colors of the kimono are an expression to show ones beauty or indicate a season change. The many layers of the kimono are important because of cold winters and to see the vibrancy of colors. A change of color represents Japanese beauty.
Mary Griley, a member of the garden, said “The performance gave new meaning to the kimonos.”
CSULB students had the opportunity to be dressed in traditional Heian kimono wear, which can weigh over 17 kilograms. Javier Beltran, an illustrator major, was dressed in Hita Tare,which is traditional samurai wear. It features long sleeves which is particular to this time frame.
“It’s what you would wear inside the palace or protecting the emperor and his family,” Beltran said.
Nadia Vanelc, a drawing and painting major, said the kimonos were “a little heavy, but cool to wear.”
The event was sponsored by Friends of the EBM Japanese Garden, Den’s Tea and Mazuri: The Exotic Animal Feeding Resource. A silent auction was held as a fundraiser and kimonos were displayed in the tea house. Translated versions and a manga version of the “Tale of Genji” were on display too. Guest enjoyed appetizers, drinks, company and culture.
