Freer Gallery’s “Asia After Dark”: Chinese Martial Arts

The Smithsonian’s Freer Gallery of Art will transform into a cultural hot spot for the final “Asia After Dark” after-hours event of the summer Saturday, Aug. 17, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., featuring a night of exploration and discovery into Chinese martial arts and 3-D printing technology. Ticket prices are $25 in advance and $30 at the door; Silk Road Society prices are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. The ticket price includes one free drink, and guests must be 21 years old with valid photo ID to attend.

Through a special collaboration with the team planning the Smithsonian Innovation Space at the Arts & Industries Building, opening September 2014, guests can explore 3-D scanning and printing with experts from theSmithsonian’s digitization program unit and participate in the creation of a 10-foot-tall replica statue of the Freer’s renowned “Cosmological Buddha,” on view on in “Promise of Paradise: Early Chinese Buddhist Sculpture.” Keith Wilson, curator of ancient Chinese art, will also be on hand to discuss his latest research and what 3-D technology reveals about the scenes portrayed on the Buddha’s robe.

As the night continues and creative forces unfold, guests can experience kung fu martial arts demonstrations and the battle sounds of DJs Hop Fu, who will present their popular “hip-hop meets kung fu” performance–a live show that presents classic kung fu films with a live hip-hop musical score. Tai chi demonstrations and a crafty teacup sleeve art activity provide a calming counterpoint. Specialty cocktails and food trucks will be available throughout the evening.

“Asia After Dark” resumes in 2014 to celebrate Bollywood, in collaboration with theSmithsonian Asian Pacific American Center‘s exhibition “Beyond Bollywood,” opening December 2013 at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of National History.