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The Art of Gaman: Arts & Crafts from the Japanese American Internment Camps, 1942-1946

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January 19 – May 11, 2014

A showcase of more than 120 artifacts made by Japanese Americans while interned at camps during WWII, this traveling exhibit explores the creativity and ingenuity of internees as well as the Japanese concept of gaman, or to endure the unbearable with patience and dignity.

Works, ranging from tools, everyday objects, illustrations, paintings, furniture, toys, clothing and more, are presented with historical context through photographs, documents and films in the exhibit as curated by Delphine Hirasuna, the San Francisco-based author of the 2005 book “The Art of Gaman,” with advisory support from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and in partnership the Japanese American Citizens League.

** For those planning a visit on Sunday, May 11, please read important information on street closures and limited parking due to the Amgen Tour of California. **