Return to Listings

A-B | C-D | E-F | G-H | I-J | K-L | M-N | O-P | Q-R | S-T | U-V | W-X | Y-Z

Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

Showing All Results (Text Only) | Back to 8 Results per Page

Amaterasu, The Sun Goddess Asian Art Museum Storyteller, Liz Nichols, tells a Japanese story about Amaterasu, the sun goddess, in the museum’s Japan galleries. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/amaterasu-the-sun-goddess/

Ancient China: From the Neolithic Period to the Han Dynasty [PDF] "An historical overview of ancient China—from the Neolithic period (approx. 6,000–2000 BCE) to the end of the Han dynasty (220 CE)" This packet explores the rise of ancient Chinese civilization and how belief systems and cultural values are reflected in surviving examples of its material culture. The packet features important archaeological excavations such as the Tomb of Fu Hao, created in the Shang dynasty (approx. 1600–1050 BCE); the Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng, created in the Warring States period (approx. 480–221 BCE); and the Terracotta Army of Qin Shi Huangdi, the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE), created approx. 210 BCE. Other highlights include Chinese jades, bronzes, and ceramics in the Asian Art Museum’s collection galleries. The packet includes interactive activities for the classroom and student handouts. See also content and multiple downloads on An Introduction to the Qin Empire (221–206 BCE), An Introduction to the Han Dynasty, and An Introduction to the Shang Dynasty. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Ancient-China...

Appreciating Chinese Calligraphy A comprehensive, short documentary on the art of Chinese calligraphy. Downloads includes a guide "Getting Started with Chinese Calligraphy" and a Teachers Packet. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/appreciating-chinese-calligraphy/

Art in Focus: The Legend of Krishna "The legend of Krishna has inspired Hindu art, poetry, music and philosophy for more than 2,000 years. This packet highlights the celebrated legend of this Hindu god as depicted in South Asian painting—from his mischievous childhood antics to his stately conduct as a prince and his awe-inspiring presence as the supreme spirit. Teaching activities feature selected excerpts from the legend of Krishna and paintings from the Asian Art Museum’s collection galleries." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/ArtinFocus-Kr...

Artist Profile: Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) Learn about the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849). Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/artist-profile-katsushika-hokusai/

Artist Profile: Utagawa (Ando) Hiroshige (1797–1858) Learn about the Japanese artist Utagawa (Ando) Hiroshige (1797–1858). Download a map of "Tokaido Road in Japan." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/artist-profile-utagawa-ando-hiroshige/

Arts of Edo Japan [PDF] "This packet offers an in-depth examination of Edo period (1615–1868) Japan, focusing on the flourishing arts of the period. Art activities include creating a 3D model of a teahouse, a pilgrimage book, and seals." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/Arts-of-Edo.p...

Arts of the Samurai [PDF] "The term samurai is derived from the word saburau, or “one who serves.” The evolution of the samurai from mounted guards to the nobility (during the twelfth century) and their subsequent ascent to military leaders of Japan (until imperial restoration during the nineteenth century) is chronicled in distinctive warrior arts and literary tradition. This packet examines the samurai through precious art objects from the museum’s collection. These include authentic military equipment (arms and armor), paintings depicting famed conflicts, ceremonial attire, and objects created for religious and cultural pursuits strongly connected with the samurai class." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/ArtsofSamurai...

Beliefs Made Visible: Religion and Art in South Asia View the whole series of religious arts in South Asia. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/beliefs-made-visible-religions-in-sout...

Beliefs Made Visible: Understanding Hindu and Buddhist Art in South Asia [PDF] "Explore the basic tenets and influences of Hinduism and Buddhism throughout Asia. Special attention is given to the evolution of Hinduism and Buddhism in India, and the representation of these beliefs in sculpture and religious architecture (stupas, temples, caves, and so on). Includes lessons on the traditions of threshold art and handouts on the symbolic gestures of Buddhas." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Beliefs-Made-...

A Brief History of Samurai Armor Learn about samurai armor in this video by exploring artworks in the Asian Art Museum’s collection. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/a-brief-history-of-samurai-armor/

Brushpainting Demonstration with Artist Kong Pak-yu Watch artist Kong Pak-yu demonstrate brushpainting at the Asian Art Museum. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/brushpainting-demonstration-with-artis...

Brushpainting: Nature in Art School Program (selected resources) This selection of resources introduces students to the vocabulary, techniques, and values of East Asian ink painting. Lessons and background information compliment the Brushpainting: Nature in Art school program at the Asian Art Museum. Includes download of visual guide. See also the video resource Brushpainting: Nature in Art. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/brushpainting-nature-in-art-school-pro...

Brushstrokes: Styles and Techniques of Chinese Painting [PDF] "Brushpainting, which includes calligraphy, landscapes, scrolls and fans, has been a major art form throughout Chinese history. This packet explores the history, development and significance of brushpainting in Chinese art. Includes discussion of painting and calligraphy techniques, and a comparison of painting styles." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Brushstrokes....

Bu and Bun: The Arts of War and Peace In addition to superior strategic and military ability, most elite samurai were expected to be versed in the cultural arts. The warrior’s ideal balance of military and artistic skill is captured well in this description of the sixteenth century daimyo Hosokawa Yusai (1534–1610): “Renowned for his elegant pursuits, he is a complete man combining arts [bun] and arms [bu]. A man of nobility, a descendant of the sixth grandson of the emperor Seiwa, he was a ruler endowed with awesome dignity and inspiring decorum…He built a splendid castle, which was majestic, beautiful and high…He discussed Chinese poetic styles and recited by heart the secret teachings of Japanese poetry…" See also Archery Practice. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/bu-and-bun-the-arts-of-war-and-peace/

Buddhist Caves at Ajanta Learn about Buddhist caves. This is one of a series of caves excavated out of the volcanic rock that extends along a cliff overlooking the Wagora River at Ajanta, about two hours north of the present-day city of Aurangabad, in Maharastra state in western India. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/buddhist-caves-at-ajanta/

Chanoyu: The Japanese Art of Tea The Japanese phrase Chanoyu, translated literally as “hot water for tea,” refers to the tradition of preparing and serving powdered green tea in a highly stylized manner. Learn more about this tradition. Download PDF on Japanese Tea Ceremony. See also Muromachi Period Tea (1338-1573) and Experience Chanoyu: The Japanese Art of Tea [PDF] Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/chanoyu-the-japanese-art-of-tea/

China’s Terracotta Army In groups, students will research and present information about the First Emperor’s accomplishments and legacy. Downloads of additional lesson plans and resources. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/chinas-terracotta-army/

China: The Glorious Tang and Song Dynasties [PDF] From a workshop for Teachers. During the Tang (618–906) and Song (960–1279) dynasties, the Chinese empire enjoyed a blossoming of foreign exchange as trade expanded along the Silk Road and sea routes. In this era China also witnessed the flourishing of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism and saw the development of porcelain making and reproduction printing. This packet examines the trade, commerce, religion, philosophy, literature and art of these dynasties. Student handouts include readings and activities on Tang and Song dynasty literature, art and science. See also China: An Introduction to the Tang Dynasty (618-906) and China: An Introduction to the Song Dynasty (960–1279). Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/glorious_tang...

Chinese Buddhist Cave Shrines Explores ancient Buddhist cave shrines in China, including why the sites were created and the major sponsors and patrons. Includes 4 min video. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/chinese-buddhist-cave-shrines/

A Confucian Scholar's House An introduction to Korean Confucianism and related architecture. Download teachers packet "Three Settings of Traditional Korean Culture." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/a-confucian-scholars-house/

Create a Lotus Lantern for the Lotus Lantern Festival Students will: 1.) Learn that Buddhism is a religion founded by an enlightened young Indian prince who became the Buddha. 2.) Learn how the Buddha’s birthday, a national holiday, is celebrated in Korea. 3.) Discuss how the lotus flower is symbol of purity and wisdom. 3.) Construct a lotus blossom lantern. Downloads include visual guides and instructions, a slide show activity, and stencil. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-a-lotus-lantern-for-the-lotus-l...

Create a Simulated Woodblock Print Students will be able to identify, compare and contrast images of traditional Japanese woodblock prints. They will then create their own simulated woodblock prints. Downloads include activities, slideshow and guides. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-a-simulated-woodblock-print/

Create a Thai Style Shadow Puppet Create your own shadow puppet and perform a scene from the Ramayana. Downloads include an activity guide, templates, and a slideshow. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-a-thai-style-shadow-puppet/

Create Balinese Shadow Puppets Create Balinese shadow puppets with these downloadable templates. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-balinese-shadow-puppets/

Create Your Own Hanging Scroll and Name Seal Create your own hanging scroll and name seal. Downloads include a lesson plan, a slideshow of scroll examples, and a student handout. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-your-own-hanging-scroll-and-nam...

Create Your Own Illustrated Haiku Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry made of three lines (5 syllables, 7 syllables, 5 syllables) that is commonly a meditation on nature. Make an image using colorful paper and ink, and then write a haiku inspired by your creation. Downloads include visual instructions and an activity. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-your-own-illustrated-haiku/

Create Your Own Mandala The act of creating the mandala can be a quiet, meditative act, as well; drawing repeating patterns, especially of meaningful images or symbols, can be a calming experience that helps keep the artist centered and focused. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/create-your-own-mandala/

Decoding Chinese Calligraphy Master Chinese calligrapher Cai Xingyi demonstrates five major scripts in this video. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/decoding-chinese-calligraphy/

The Development of Landscape Painting in China: The Song through the Ming Dynasties Invasions in the north by the Jin Tartars in the 12th century forced the Song dynasty to retreat to the south where a new court was established at Hangzhou in 1127. Under the Emperor Hui Zong the Imperial Painting Academy already was moving in the direction of closer views of nature, both in landscapes and in images of birds, flowers, and insects. The intent was to capture the vital life spirit of these subjects as well as an understanding of their true form, texture, and movement in space. See also Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) Education and Tradition. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-development-of-landscape-painting-...

Diwali Festival and Threshold Art Students will: 1.) examine the Hindu tradition of threshold art; 2.) research how Diwali (Festival of Lights) is commemorated in India; 3. draw traditional labyrinth threshold patterns; 4.) work in teams to create a large labyrinth floor painting in celebration of Diwali. See also Making Rangoli: A Celebration of Color. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/diwali-festival-and-threshold-art/

Epic Literature – The Ramayana (Story of Rama) Students are introduced to the Ramayana (Story of Rama) and recall events by sequencing related art objects on a Story Hill. Then students make connections between artistic and literary depictions of character by comparing Vishnu and Ravana. Downloads include a lesson plan, multiple handouts, guides, and appendices, and a slideshow. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/epic-literature-the-ramayana-story-of-...

Fold a Paper Lotus Flower Activity in which students will create a paper lotus. Downloads to support to the project. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/fold-a-paper-lotus-flower/

The Four Treasures and Other Utensils for a Scholar's Desk Writing was so valued by the Chinese that they called the most essential implements for the art The Four Treasures–the brush, ink stick, ink stone, and paper. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-four-treasures-and-other-utensils-...

Getting Started with Zazen (Seated Meditation) In Zen Buddhism, zazen (pronounced: zah-zen) is a sitting meditation. Zazen is not focusing on a specific object or thought. Instead, it is the liberating of one’s mind of all thought into a state of emptiness (a complete emptiness that is also complete fullness) from which the practitioner hopes to experience spontaneous awakening to the inner self (enlightenment). Download Includes a glossary. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/getting-started-with-zazen-seated-medi...

Good and Evil? Dynamic Opposites in the Story of Rama Students brainstorm the qualities of good and evil and draw conclusions about the Balinese concept of “dynamic” or balanced opposites. Then, students will relate the idea of “dynamic opposites” in the Ramayana (Story of Rama) to present-day situations by identifying a current problem, creating a visual identify for their own pair of opposing characters, and scripting a dialogue. Downloads include lesson plans, activities, background and slideshow. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/good-and-evil-dynamic-opposites-in-the...

Goryeo Dynasty: Korea’s Age of Enlightenment [PDF] Few people are aware that the name Korea is derived from the name of the Goryeo (previously tranliterated as Koryo) dynasty. It was during this period (918–1392) that Korea became known to the world outside East Asia. This packet provides an overview of aspects of Goryeo society and Goryeo Buddhism as depicted in the arts of the period. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/GoryeoDynasty...

History and Traditions of the Samurai Students will use images of samurai armor and weaponry to learn related vocabulary. They will describe the functional and aesthetic aspects of armor through focused viewing and reading, and they will draw conclusions about the changing code of the samurai over the course of 800 years. Download includes a lesson plan, a number of guides, and slideshows. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/history-and-traditions-of-the-samurai/

Hokusai and Hiroshige: Great Japanese Prints [PDF] A historical and cultural overview of Edo period (1615–1868) Japan as a context for examining Japanese woodblock prints. See also 11 min Video. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/Hokusai_and_H...

How to Identify a Buddha "The earliest surviving representations of the Buddha date from hundreds of years after his death, so they are not portraits in the usual sense. Buddha images vary greatly from place to place and period to period, but they almost always show these conventional features..." Downloads includes student handouts and a teacher packet on Hindu Buddhist Art. See also An Introduction to Buddhism. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/how-to-identify-a-buddha/

How to Paint a Lotus The lotus flower is a Buddhist symbol of purity. Students will learn how to paint a lotus flower using Chinese brushpainting techniques in this hands on activity. Downloads include a lesson plan, teacher packets, visual instructions for the activity, and other resources. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/how-to-paint-a-lotus/

How to Read a Woodblock Print Learn how to read a woodblock print. Download visual guides. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/how-to-read-a-woodblock-print/

Illuminated Manuscripts: The Sacred Art of Narration Students will: 1.) Identify the format and elements of a sutra. 2.) Examine why sutras (the teachings of the Buddha) are important historical and religious documents. 3.) Analyze why the writing of sutras is considered an important religious act. 4.) Construct and illustrate an accordion book manuscript based on the sutra format used during the Goryeo dynasty. Downloads include Visual Guides, a Lesson Plan, and Teachers Packet. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/illuminated-manuscripts-the-sacred-art...

India! A Celebration [PDF] This packet was produced to accompany the exhibition India: A Celebration, shown at the Asian Art Museum in fall 1997. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/IndiaaCelebra...

An Introduction to Chinese Brushpainting Techniques “Experience for yourself the art of brush-and-ink painting. Begin by learning how to hold the brush. Once you feel comfortable, experiment by applying varying degrees of pressure, speed, and moisture. Finally, create your own brushpainting masterpiece.” Downloads include visual instructions and a teachers packet. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/an-introduction-to-chinese-brushpainti...

An Introduction to Chinese Calligraphy In China, painting and writing developed hand in hand, sharing the same tools and techniques. Downloads include teacher packets and guides. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/an-introduction-to-chinese-calligraphy/

An Introduction to Chinese Character and Brushstrokes All Chinese characters are made up of a number of strokes. These strokes are painted in a prescribed order, depending on the script. Generally, strokes move from top to bottom and from left to right. Downloads include a guide "Getting Started with Chinese Calligraphy" and a Teachers Packet. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/an-introduction-to-chinese-character-a...

An Introduction to Japanese Buddhism Buddhism was officially transmitted to Japan in 525, when the monarch of the Korean kingdom of Baekje sent a mission to Japan with gifts, including an image of the Buddha, several ritual objects, and sacred texts. Buddhism’s journey from India to China, Korea, and Japan had taken about a thousand years. See also An Introduction to Japanese Buddhism video with Professor Robert Sharf, University of California, Berkeley, discusses Japanese Buddhism at the Medieval Japan Teacher Institute at the Asian Art Museum. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/an-introduction-to-buddhism-in-japan/

The Invention of Woodblock Printing in the Tang (618–906) and Song (960–1279) Dynasties Among the most globally significant innovations of the Tang and Song dynasties were the inventions of woodblock printing and moveable type, enabling widespread publishing of a variety of texts, and the dissemination of knowledge and literacy. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-invention-of-woodblock-printing-in...

A Kaleidoscope of Flowers (Hindu Threshold Art in India) Students will: 1). Examine the Hindu tradition of pookolam—a three-dimensional threshold art using flowers; 2). Research the harvest festival of Onam celebrated in the southwestern state of Kerala, India; 3). Create an auspicious flower decoration in celebration of Onam. Downloads include a lesson plan and slideshow. See also Making Rangoli: A Celebration of Color and Diwali Festival and Threshold Art for more on threshold art. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/a-kaleidoscope-of-flowers/

Life in China: Tang and Song Dynasties This unit includes interdisciplinary suggested activities and downloadable handouts for approaching this subject through skill sets applied across world history studies. Download student hand outs, discussion points, comparisons, and activities. See also a spotlight on the art object, Camel, approx. 690–750. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/life-in-china-tang-and-song-dynasties/

The Life of the Buddha "The Buddha—that is, the 'Enlightened One'—lived nearly 2500 years ago in northern India. His followers have always seen his life as a shining example to all, but what 'really happened' is now impossible to know for certain. Even the earliest stories of his life include miraculous events that may seem hard to take literally. Later versions are even more elaborate, and they differ from one another in many details." Downloads includes a Student Handout and Teachers Packet. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-life-of-the-buddha/

Make a Temple Book or Japanese Screen Students will create their own books and stamps, and can inscribe poetry or good wishes on each others books. They will then take their books with them on a pilgrimage to the Asian Art Museum, the Japanese tea garden, or the beach, and record their impressions. Downloads include instructions and visual guides. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/make-a-temple-book-or-japanese-screen/

Making a (Katazome) Kimono Make a (katazome) kimono using this template. Downloads include the template and instructions. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/making-a-katazome-kimono/

Mapping the Silk Road (interactive) Students analyze objects from South Asia, West Asia, and China to connect to the travel experiences of ancient merchants and traders, develop an understanding of the breadth of the land and sea trade, and explore how art and ideas travel and change over time and place. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/mapping-the-silk-road/

New Discoveries in Chinese Archaeology Learn about some of the most prolific archaeological sites in China, including the burial complex of the First Emperor and Sanxingdui. Downloads include teachers packet, map, and timeline. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/new-discoveries-in-chinese-archaeology/

The Sacred Arts of Tibet [PDF] “An overview of the culture, history and arts of Tibet, with a focus on the influence of Buddhism.” Activities include making a sculpture in the style of a Tibetan torma (traditionally, a sculpture of butter and roasted barley flour made as a devotional offering) and readings that address topics ranging from traditional Tibetan arts to contemporary Tibetan culture. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/Sacred-Arts-o...

The Samurai (Vocabulary) A guide to Medieval Japan and Samurai terms both online and as a download Word Doc. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-samurai-vocabulary/

Samurai Warrior Codes: Comparing Perspectives from the Kamakura, Muromachi, and Edo Periods The term, bushido, is often used to describe the samurai warrior code during medieval and modern times. The definition refers to a late 19th century description and was actually quite different than codes from earlier times. Compare warrior codes from different times with the modern definition of bushido. Then, choose which code you think matches the samurai in the screen painting, the Battles at Ichi-no-tani and Yashima, from The Tale of the Heike. Downloads include a Lesson Plan, slide show, and Student Handout. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/samurai-warrior-codes-comparing-perspe...

Samurai War Tales: Battle of Awazugahara, from The Tale of the Heike Based on real events from the 900s to 1600s and then embellished over time to create powerful narratives full of good storytelling, sympathetic characters, and poignant and stirring events, War Tales provide information and insights into the lives of Japans warriors. The Tale of the Heike is among Japan’s most celebrated war tales. It traces the rise, brief glory, and fall of the Taira clan (also known as the Heike clan). “This scene illustrates an episode from the chapter 'The End of the Life of Kiso Yoshinaka' in The Tale of the Heike, a thirteenth-century recounting of the wars between two powerful clans, the Heike and the Genji (also called the Taira and the Minamoto).” Also see the video “The Samurai and the Storyteller” and Battles at Ichi-no-tani and Yashima. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/battle-of-awazugahara-from-the-tale-of...

Scholar-Literati Scroll Project Students will become members of the “literati/scholar” class by demonstrating their understanding of Chinese history, philosophy, and poetry. They will also display high achievement in the “Three Perfections”: calligraphy, painting, and poetry. This project is designed to be a creative alternative to daily or weekly assignments which might otherwise be assembled in a notebook or binder at the end of the 7th-grade Medieval China unit. Downloads includes handouts and maps. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/scholar-literati-scroll-project/

Shadow Theater - Bringing Your Character to Life Students use visual evidence to convey character by constructing a visual identity for their shadow puppet, and demonstrate principles of shadow-casting and puppet-making by performing their shadow play. Download lesson plans, a puppet template and related unit on the Story of Rama. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/shadow-theater-bringing-your-character...

The Spiritual Life of a Samurai: Meditation and Brushpainting Students will discuss the ways in which spiritual belief supported and enhanced the military func¬tion and cultural values of the samurai. They will experience this practice through an ink painting activity. Downloads include lesson plan, slide show, and glossary. See also Code of the Samurai in Art and Literature. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-spiritual-life-of-the-samurai-medi...

The Spread of Buddhism Across Asia Understand, through the analysis of artifacts and maps, how Buddhism changed as it spread across Asia and came to reflect the countries that embraced it. Downloads include a slideshow and handout on Buddhist artifacts and a lesson plan. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-spread-of-buddhism-across-asia/

The Story of Rama [PDF] In this unit, students are introduced to the basic background of Balinese Hinduism and to one of its main texts, the Ramayana (The Story of Rama), about a prince and his long hero’s journey. It began in India and spread among many countries throughout Asia. Its text is a major thread in the culture, religion, history, and literature of millions. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/10/Rama.pdf

Taoism and the Arts of China [PDF] "This packet introduces Taoism, and its expression in Chinese art. What exactly is Taoism? (pronounced “dow-ism”) The “Tao” (pronounced “dow”) is change, motion, energy, the source of all matter and creation. It unfolds as the interaction of two kinds of energy (qi, pronounced “chee”), called yin and yang. These two energies interact in a state of constant movement. Taoism is a world of beliefs, writings, ceremonial practices, philosophies, and art that strives to harmonize the life of human beings with the forever and naturally changing universe. Like any religion or set of indigenous beliefs, Taoism has evolved over the centuries to encompass many ideas, mythologies and cultural practices." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Taoism-Teache...

Temple, Palace, Scholar’s House: Three Settings of Traditional Korean Culture [PDF] This packet introduces teachers and other readers to several traditional settings of Korean culture: Buddhist temples, palaces, and scholar’s houses, as well as Confucian academies where scholars were trained. These settings provide a framework or backdrop for many of the historical art objects on display at the museum. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Temple-Palace...

Tomb Treasures: Explore a Tomb from China’s Han Dynasty Explore a virtual tomb: Tomb Treasures exhibition and assembled using photography and reference material provided by the Nanjing Museum, the Tomb Treasures 3D Experience begins with an aerial view of a reconstructed Han Dynasty royal mausoleum; the burial mound is lifted to reveal Tombs 1 and 2 prior to presenting an interactive 3D of Tomb 1. Explore 12 different areas of the tomb, where different objects were discovered. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/explore-a-tomb-from-chinas-han-dynasty...

The Underground Army of the First Emperor Just east of the modern city of Xi’an, you can see an army of soldiers unearthed. Discovered first in 1974, the work continues on three pits containing over 7,000 model soldiers. The army was buried within a framework of wooden pillars just east of the large tumulus containing the tomb of the First Emperor. It was a massive undertaking, certainly the largest ceramic project ever undertaken anywhere. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/the-underground-army-of-the-first-empe...

A Visual Vocabulary of Brush Painting The brush painting artist can achieve a multitude of effects by varying such factors as the speed and pressure applied to a brush, the size and type of brush, the amount of moisture, the manner in which different shades of ink or colors are loaded onto the brush, the angle at which the brush is held, and the type of paper or silk used for painting. Above are examples, drawn from the museum’s collection, which represent some of the more common techniques. Includes download of visual guide and instructions. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/a-visual-vocabulary-of-brushstrokes/

Warrior Kings and Divine Jesters: Indonesian Rod Puppets [PDF] This packet is designed to give an introduction to the world of Indonesian three-dimensional rod puppet theater (wayang golek) and to the stories told in performances using these puppets. Stories include Islamic and Javanese historical tales as well as Indonesian versions of the Ramayana, the epic story of the hero Rama. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/12/WarriorKingsD...

Words as Art/Art with Words: Chinese Calligraphy Teacher Packet [PDF] "How do you integrate words and art to express an idea? China’s educated elite painted artful writing, more commonly known as calligraphy, since at least the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Chinese calligraphy is a visual art. The fluid strokes, dots and lines that form each character are its focus. The content of a calligraphic work, while sometimes inspiring or moving, is usually nothing new. What is fresh, exciting, and creative is the way it is visually expressed. In China, painting and writing developed hand in hand, sharing the same tools and techniques..." Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/09/Calligraphy-w...

Zen Buddhism An introduction to Zen, a form of Buddhism that emphasizes seeking one’s own Buddha nature through meditation. Download a Zen glossary and activity. Go to Museum Resource: https://education.asianart.org/resources/zen-buddhism/

Showing All Results (Text Only) | Back to 8 Results per Page