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10/1/2005

From Geisha to Diva

Crow Collection, Dallas

The Kimono of Ichimaru

In late 2001, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria received a collection of kimono, obi, jewelry, records, tapes and other paraphernalia, which belonged to the geisha and later diva, Ichimaru (1906-1997). This collection has been packaged into a traveling tour: From Geisha to Diva: the Kimono of Ichimaru.

The Crow Collection of Asian Art will present this collection of kimono along with costumes, several pieces of furniture, souvenirs, and records. Woodblock prints illustrating the life of geishas are also part of the exhibition and include an actual print of Ichimaru herself.

Ichimaru was born into a poor family and became a geisha in the 1920s and early 30s. She gained a reputation as an elegant and beautiful Geisha who possessed a "nightingale-like voice". She signed a contract with Victor Records and remained a popular singer who performed in geisha regalia from the 1930s to the 1970s. She died in her nineties.

The kimono in this exhibition reflect her taste from the 1930s to the 1970s. The costumes are preserved in almost pristine condition and reflect several different styles and methods of decoration.

As Japan's ancient institution of the geisha entertainer changed with the influx of western culture, the geisha, Ichimaru was one of few geishas who managed to not only survive this cultural shift, but also to prosper as a classical folk singer. While she continued to perform in traditional kimono, she signed a recording contract and expanded her popularity internationally. This exhibit, which features Ichimaru's beautiful kimono, provides insight into women's history in Japan, and how gender roles, cultural values and stereotypes affect ideals of artistic expression.

The Trammell & Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art contains more than 600 paintings, objects of metal and stone, and large architectural pieces from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. Over 300 works are on display in the galleries including precious jade ornaments from China, delicate Japanese scrolls and a rarely seen 28-foot by 12-foot sandstone facade of an 18th century Indian residence. Admission is always free.

The exhibition will open Wednesday, Jan. 12 with a member's preview Tuesday, Jan. 11 from 6-8 p.m.
The show will close May 15.
The Crow Collection, 2010 Flora St., is open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission is always free. Call 214-979-6430 or visit the website.

Lisa Taylor
Taylor-Made Press
923 Salmon Dr.
Dallas, TX 75208
214-943-1099
214-943-9285

The Crow Collection
2010 Flora St.
214-979-6430

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