Had a great time seeing the Met exhibition on its last day yesterday with some Vanderbilt students and my colleague. 😊

Looking forward to my book list over break.

Cold temps, warm colors.

Gave the last of three lectures related to the Frist Art Museum’s exhibition “Journey through Japan” (on loan from the Young V&A) tonight. The participants were great for the last few weeks, but it’s nice to be done!

Continuing work on preparing for my class on Ainu art and collecting next semester. I anticipate lots of deep conversations.

Morning among mountains and misty rain (listened to the Fellowship of the Ring soundtrack on the way up for an epic bus ride), followed by delicious gluten free goodness at Toshōan 都松庵 in Kyoto.

Hosting a movie viewing tonight for my students (to spot connections to the semester’s course content with the movie) while I grade in the back of the room… 😅

The Multiplicity #exhibition at the #fristartmuseum is a great show. Highly recommend it! We were lucky enough to get a tour from the curator (talking to my class here), exhibition designer, and director of education.

Thinking today of the stories museums tell- whether through (mediated) absence or presence. Photo cred to one of my museum studies students who is not on this platform. #smithsonian #beninbronzes

Went to see the Shandao painting, but was also particularly drawn to this pilgrim’s jacket. I’ve been thinking more and more on the incorporation of Buddhist iconography on wearable objects from the medieval period onwards. Cool things with word and body in both these works! #AsianStudies #Buddhism

Today was the first day of classes and Intro to Museum Studies had me reflecting on my trip to Upopoy this summer. Writing an article about the museum, but thinking I’ll share some images and thoughts here periodically this semester. 🤔