We installed the Asian Artifacts exhibition in the Collections Room this week, ready for the opening reception on Sunday. This time, instead of cramming data on individual labels, we have prepared a handout with information on a number of the pieces, including transcriptions of the inscriptions on the Chinese paintings and calligraphy.

Come enjoy - Sunday, Feb. 28, 1 to 4 p.m.

Today we took down the "Nepotes & Nutcrackers" show in The Collections Room, returned the nutcrackers to their collectors (Carroll and Bob O'Conner of Belmont), and carefully added the five Nepote paintings to our Permanent Collection storage.

Next up: "Asian Artifacts", which opens Feb. 28 with a reception from 1 to 4 p.m. (The Joseph Zirker exhibition "Machines of Memory" continues in the Gallery through March 28).

Meanwhile, a last comment on the nutcrackers from a young visitor:

"These nutcrackers are so cool! I wish I had one of my own!" - Robert G.

30+ students from Hillsdale High School visited the Twin Pines Art Center yesterday as part of a day-long field trip re Chinese New Year. Luckily, the printer had delivered the announcement cards for "Asian Artifacts", the next Collections Room show that opens Feb. 28, the day before. Mark your calendars and join us on Sunday, Feb. 28, from 1 to 4.

Hi Ruth, Just got the following information:

To order polyethylene sheets call the Sabic Company Polymer Shapes, 2250 Zanker Rd., San Jose, CA 95131

Phone #: 408 432 3800.

When ordering ask for low density polyethylene sheets. The dimensions per sheet are 48" x 96" x .06"

The cost per sheet is $18.50. Shipping, which is extra, can be either rolled or flat. Shipping rolled is much less expensive and does not damage the material.

The sheets may be ordered cut into smaller sizes but expect a shipping delay of 5 days.

Joe

Sunday Seminar: Joseph Zirker, cast acrylic monotypes

22 people crowded into the Museum's Collections Room to hear (and see) Joseph Zirker yesterday. Joe talked first about the sources of his inspirations, and read translations of several poems by Rumi. Then he told how he stumbled onto his method of producing cast acrylic monotypes (it all began with dried acrylic pigment in a clean used tofu container). Joe brought several monotypes with him, and demonstrated the careful peeling of image from the polyethylene plate. Since suitable polyethylene is not widely available, Joe will advise us regarding a Peninsula source (check here in a day or two).

More on Joseph Zirker

A feast for the eyes! Outstanding works that complement each other beautifully (the prints & the 3-D structures). What an inspiration to see an artist so creative & original & inventive up into the 80s. Go Joe! Lincoln

I concur. Joe B.

Neat! Dark and yet playful. MLC

A perfect space for this exhibit. Excellent. Jerry E.