Nara JETNet 19th Event
International Arts Festival
On June 24, 2007, Nara JETNet held its 19th international event, the International Arts Festival. The event involved over 200 Japanese participants of various ages and backgrounds and took place at the Kawanishi Culture Center. 45 JETs introduced culture along with traditional and modern art from 18 different countries. There were displays of works of art, including drawings, photography. Guests also had the chance to try interactive activities, and watch performances including music, acrobatics, and magic.
Participants began setting up the evening of June 23rd and returned the following morning to perfect their country displays. In addition to various displays, the arts festival featured multiple events occurring at the same time, ensuring that there was always plenty to see and experience.
After brief greetings from Nara JETNet, the event officially began with the opening of the country booths and the interactive activities. Other events for the day included a belly dance workshop, a capoeira workshop, a one minute masterpiece competition, a juggling workshop and a boomerang making activity.
Displays of art from various countries and ethnic groups, a fixture at JETNet events, were also at their finest. In addition to pictures and information, many groups chose to emphasize interaction with the event’s participants. Many groups brought computers, videos, and quizzes to draw people to their booths. Not to be outdone, JETs and Japanese artists from all over Nara Prefecture displayed their art. Everyone who viewed the artists’ work was overwhelmed with the level of artistic talent in the prefecture, and viewers were left with much food for thought regarding the relationship between art and internationalization.
The event ended with a series of performances including a belly dance, musicians, capoeira, acrobats (kids and adults) show and a magic show.
Surveys revealed that the event was another huge success, and many commented that with so many things to see, it was impossible to be bored. The JETNet team would like to thank everyone who participated for their continuing support!
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