O what a night that was! Those of you who attended the 23rd February lecture on The Exquisite World of Old Japan would agree that Dr Meredith McKinney drew the crowds in and started the year on an unprecedented triumphal high!
The Berry Uniting Church Hall was abuzz with anticipation, with standing room only. Pamela Wilson recapitulates the highlights of that exhilarating evening:
“Thanks to Ellie Cooper who opened our lecture with three songs from popular Disney films: Anastasia, Moana and Pocahontas. Her voice and poise belied her age, giving us a glimpse of what the future holds for her. Thanks to her Dad for all his help.
Anne Cole’s Ikebana floral arrangement, harmonious and balanced, was striking. Worthy of more than a glimpse, it demanded close observation and was a perfect artwork for the lecture that followed.
”There are so many talented people in ADFAS Shoalhaven.
The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon, translated by Meredith McKinney, is a compilation of vignettes describing personal observations of court life. The author’s descriptions of droplets of water on leaves, the delicate webs spun by spiders and her enjoyment when being outdoors give us glimpses of her love of nature. The eroticism of undergarments peeping out of necklines and sleeves, the furtive use of fans and screens were all part of the day-to-day life. Having no walls, curtains and screens were easily moved. Space was fluid making little compartments: the form echoed in the book itself. Meredith McKinney’s lecture was remarkable. It took four long years to translate The Pillow Book. We are all the richer for it.”
May Lecture – I Will Lift Mine Eyes: The Cathedrals of Britain and their Norman connections
Don’t miss our 4 May lecture, at 7.30pm at Berry Uniting Church Hall, 71-77 Alfred Street, Berry. John Swainston, author and photographer, treats us to a stunning photographic extravaganza to visit the magnificent cathedral ceilings in Wales and England.
For more information on this lecture visit our website: adfas.org.au/societies/shoalhaven/. Maebehe Garcia Publicity Officer
