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Midday Prayer by Michael Kenna
   
 

Memories and Meditations: A Retrospective of Michael Kenna's Photography

Michael Kenna has been capturing the ethereal essence of locations across the globe for more than 30 years. His unique point of view evokes a sense of calm that enhances the intimate connections of history and geography. The first US retrospective of internationally acclaimed photographer Michael Kenna’s photography in nearly 20 years, Memories and Meditations: A Retrospective of Michael Kenna’s Photography comes to Tacoma Art Museum from October 6, 2012 through March 24, 2013.

The exhibition explores Kenna’s ongoing investigations of everything from the natural beauty of an island among Eastern countries to the haunting shadows of abandoned buildings in the midwest of the United States. Kenna is known to frequently return to certain locales in order to record them over the course of several years to capture the brilliance of time passing and memory. His wonder at the alchemy of printmaking translates into a wonderland of visual poetry.

Part 1: October 6, 2012–January 6, 2013
Part 2: January 11–March 24, 2013

Related Programs

Symposium: The Art of Reconciliation and the Holocaust
Saturday, March 16, 12 pm
Join us for a half-day community symposium and explore the Art of Reconciliation with local community partners. Presenters and panel members will be speaking on the impact of major events such as the Holocaust and how art has been used as a tool for communities and individuals. Cost: Free with museum admission.

Audio Guides

Click here to listen to the audio guide from Part One of Memories and Meditations

Past Programs

Artist Reception
Sunday, November 4, 4 pm
Meet the artist for a brief reception. Arrive early for first-come-first serve seating in the Murray Events Space.

Second City Concert Chamber Series: Zen Pathways
Friday, November 9, 7:30 pm
The beauty of Tacoma Art Museum and the work of esteemed photographer Michael Kenna form the backdrop for this program in partnership with the Second City Chamber Orchestra. Come “hear” Kenna’s photography as you explore the “Zen Pathways” of Japan, Russia, France, and the Northwest, expressed in music. A private tour of the exhibition Memories and Meditations: A Retrospective of Michael Kenna’s Photography (on view October 6, 2012 through February 3, 2013) will be part of the event.

Alan Hovahness: The Garden of Adonis
Sophia Gubaidulina: The Garden of Joys and Sorrows
Michio Miyagi: Haru No Umi (The Sea in Springtime)
Claude Debussy: Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp
Jennifer Rhyne, flute
Jeanne Rogers, viola
Catherine Barrett, harp

Lecture and Book Signing: Michael Kenna - SOLD OUT!
Saturday, January 12, 2 pm
As we unveil the second rotation of artwork in exhibition Memories and Meditations: A Retrospective of Michael Kenna’s Photography, come hear from the artist himself. He will present an overview of his work and artistic approach, and share stories about the works on view. A book signing will follow this lecture. Cost: $15 ($10 for members, $5 for students). Includes museum admission.

More to Explore:

G. Gibson Gallery (Seattle) exhibited Michael Kenna: In France, October 26 through December 22, 2012.

Follow Michael Kenna Photography on Facebook.

Explore the artist's website.

 
   
 

Michael Kenna, Midday Prayer, Mont St. Michel, France, 2004. Sepia-toned gelatin silver print, 7 1/4 x 7 1/2 inches. Courtesy of the artist and G. Gibson Gallery, Seattle.

Memories and Meditations: A Retrospective of Michael Kenna’s Photography is funded by the Boeing Company, The Greater Tacoma Community Foundation and Tacoma Arts Commission.

 
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