“Asia in August” at Crow Valley

“Asia in August,” a collaborative show of literary, culinary and visual art forms, is being presented by Crow Valley Pottery in Eastsound, Christina’s and Darvill’s Books during the month of August. The businesses say they will each be contributing their own special offerings to create an inviting and out-of-the-ordinary experience for their customers.

Crow Valley Pottery “In Town” will be presenting new collections from islander Susan Singleton, new works from Wuhan, China artists YuPing and ChenFeng and a collection of works from throughout Asia discovered by Crow Valley Pottery owners Michael Rivkin and Jeffri Coleman.

Singleton is well known for her contemporary works in paper. Although her work is often large mural-style works, for this show Singleton has created a new smaller series entitled “Island Lights” that combines her traditional style with altered images of Orcas Island. YuPing and ChenFeng Brand work has been shown at Crow Valley for several years, and has a loyal local following. This year the artists have created a series of paintings presenting their interpretation of traditional Chinese folk art. Rounding out the show are works discovered during their recent travels in Asia by Rivkin and Coleman who frequently scour Asia for unusual pieces to add to their own collection, but this year focused on gathering work specifically for this show. More than 100 pieces will be exhibited, including old woodblock prints from Japan, traditional peasant art from TianJin, folk art from Beijing, woodblock prints from Shanghai and a broad spectrum of work from throughout China.

Jenny Pederson at Darvill’s Books is said to enjoy the challenge of seeking out and bringing to the venerable shop interesting new discoveries. Her “Asia in August” contribution will be books sourced from around the globe. Cookbooks on cuisine from a variety of specific Asian regions will be featured along with books featuring Japanese woodblocks art, regional folk art, Asian culture and Chinese art interpretation. Selections will change throughout the month as works are replaced by new finds.

Christina’s will be bringing culinary flair to the mix with menus drawn from the wide variety of flavors of Southeastern Asia. Chef/owner Maureen Mullen and her team will be supplementing the restaurant menu by displaying the broad range of recipes and ingredients available both locally and from Asia during the month.

“Asia in August” opens Friday, Aug. 1 with a reception at Crow Valley Pottery’s Eastsound location from 4 to 8 p.m. The show runs for the entire month of August. Additional information is available from Crow Valley Pottery at 376-4260, Christina’s at 376-4904 or Darvill’s Books at 376-2135.

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