As part of the annual Chinese New Year celebration, the Gallery at Plainsboro Public Library presents “The Beauty of Nature,” a unique exhibit of Chinese calligraphy by Randy Yang. In this collection of largely three-dimensional pieces, the artist has created exquisite objets d’art from discarded natural elements.
Pieces of wood, stone, or gourds have become polished, well-crafted surfaces where the inherent shapes and textures become a part of the design. On these, the artist pens Chinese verse. Yang will be on hand to explain the stories behind the work at an art reception on Saturday, February 13, from noon to 2 p.m. The library’s annual Chinese New Year celebration will follow. The exhibit is on view to Sunday, February 28.
Originally from Taiwan, the artist lives in North Brunswick. “I am not a professional artist, but I have always been artistically inclined, always liked working with my hands and making something beautiful,” says Yang. “Art is not just my hobby but a way of life. My day job in logistics is very analytical, so it is nice to be able to turn to something super creative in my down time.”
The library will welcome in the new year with a festive and joyful dragon dance performed by Huaxia Chinese School’s Dragon Dance Team, a traditional staple of the Chinese New Year celebration, at 1:30 p.m.
The doors to the Community Room will open at 1:50 p.m. to the beating of drums, signaling the beginning of performances. Performances include orchestral music, gymnastics, cultural dances, a magic show, and more.
Asian Food Market presents a food show from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Dumplings will be prepared and served in the first floor cafe area. There will also be hands-on demonstrations of Chinese knotting, dough art by “Dough Man” David Lee, and displays of Chinese brush painting and calligraphy from 2 to 4 p.m. There will also be games and prizes hosted by the Plainsboro branches of PNC Bank, Indus American Bank, and the First Constitution Bank.
A Chinese book sale takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. in the basement. Books in both traditional and simplified Chinese will be available, and all proceeds will go towards future Chinese New Year programs.
Elected officials and leading citizens will pass out red envelopes and “good luck” oranges at both library exits at 3:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Plainsboro Public Library, 9 Van Doren Street, Plainsboro. Saturday, February 13. www.lmxac.org or 609-275-2897
