The Freer offers a rich program of free Asia related films, concerts, dance performances and lectures in the Meyer Auditorium. Programs are subject to change, so call (202)633-1000 or go to: www.asia.si.edu. For a calendar of events, call (202) 633-0519 or pick up a copy at the information desk.
"Tales of the Brush Continued: Chinese Paintings With Literary Themes" (opening February 9); "Taking Shape: Ceramics in Southeast Asia" (through 2010)."Arts of the Indian Subcontinent and the Himalayas" (indefinite); "The Arts of China" (indefinite).
In "Arts of the Islamic World" see some 60 objects dating from the 9th to the 17th centuries.
Folding screens are one of the most distinctive forms of Japanese art. The Freer Gallery's well-known collection, representing many of Japan's greatest artists, dates from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
Ceramics, simple in form and spare in decoration, have long been an important part of Korean culture and art, admired for their distinctive balance of informality and dignity. The Korean Art gallery contains some 30 objects ranging from the 3rd to the 20th centuries.
Ask about activity guides at the information desk. Children's programs and activities, listed in the calendar of events, are offered on weekends during the school year and weekday afternoons and Thursday evenings in the summer.
Children find the two expressive Kongorikishi warriors at both ends of the corridor on the Mall entrance side of the museum entertaining. The big wooden sculptures date back to 14th-century Japan.
In the "Peacock Room", see if they notice the colored stones in the two large peacock's eyes on the south wall.
Teachers, visit www.asia.si.edu/education or order curriculum materials from the Gallery Shop. For information on tours for school groups and workshops for teachers, call (202) 633-0445, or email asiatours@si.edu
Here you'll find limited edition prints, jewelry from around the world, books and Asian music CDs, as well as sudoku puzzles and origami projects. The Freer shop features a unique selection of teapots, ranging from the whimsical to the traditional.
Explore the sounds of traditional and contemporary Asian music. You'll also find prints and jewelry from around the world, as well as educational materials and items for kids.
Although the Freer and Sackler galleries do not have on-site cafés, many Smithsonian museums do.
