200 Larkin St
San Francisco, California 94102

MATCHA: Way of the Sword
Thursday, Aug 27
5-9 pm | $10 admission
http://www.asianart.org/matcha2009/augustmatcha.htm
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=110059395898&ref=ts

DANG!

“Iaidō is a Japanese martial art associated with the smooth, controlled movements of drawing the sword from its scabbard, striking or cutting an opponent, removing blood from the blade, and then replacing the sword in the scabbard.”

Hailing from samurai sword techniques, iaido (ee-ay-doe) is a martial art preserved for 450 years. The iaidoka (practitioner) wields a sword not to control the opponent, but himself. His mind is peaceful, harmonious, and active, ready to react.

We are honored to present a VERY SPECIAL RARE APPEARANCE BY ESAKA SENSEI, one of Japan's finest, esteemed iaidoka. Holding many prestigious posts, including instructor for Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan’s Self Defense Forces, and Iaido Renmei Defense Academy, Esaka Sensei teaches iaido throughout Japan, North America, and Europe.

+ Observe students and him demonstrate riveting techniques of iaido

+ Learn the basics of drawing a sword in movement workshops

+ Cool down with docent conversations

+ Create an artwork inspired by tsuba (a sword’s hand guard)

+ Catch a screening of Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman

+ See Lords of the Samurai (new rotation of artworks!)

+ Stroll the galleries, savor a special sake flight from the cash bar, enjoy music spun by DJ Tau, and much more.

Added by bittermelon on August 5, 2009

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