We offer a variety of workshops (W), classes (C), presentations (P, exhibits (E) and demonstrations (D).
Individual and group classes are available, accompanied by lively discussions of Japanese culture.  Pick up some Japanese words and phrases along the way!

You can contact us about scheduling your classes, workshop, presentation, demonstration or exhibit at:
ArtsIzUs@gmail.com
or visit us at:
Studio 306 at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, Reading, PA.

Offerings include, but are not limited to:

Origami Paper-Folding
Learn a variety of Japanese paper-folding arts, from moving origami toys, including beautiful spinning tops to decorations, ornaments & gift boxes to beautiful “chiyogami” dolls.  – (C/W/E/D)

Drawing Manga (Graphic Novels)
Draw Japanese-style comics! Manga techniques and styles. Draw manga eyes, hair, paneling, character creation, and much more (and again, learn some Japanese language and culture)!
- (C/W/E/P/D)

Origami Doll Making
Make beautiful origami and chiyogami dolls using Japanese “washi”  (special paper made with mulberry bark). (C/W/E)

Not Just for Kids! The History, Culture & Impact of Manga
(The Japanese Graphic Novel/Japanese Comics)
Did you know that in Japan there are manga for every genre, from action to sports to office workers to chefs to romance? And it’s definintely not just for kids! How does manga differ from American comics? Japanese manga/anime has had some surprising influences here in America (and vice versa). Discover the  rich history of Japanese comics, from it’s earliest “ancestors” on temple scrolls to the kamishibai man to the culture of manga in Japan today. Manga today: Manga has spread throughout the world — manga from around the world!; manga’s impact on contemporary American graphic design. Manga & literacy: manga transforms non-readers into avid readers! (C/W/E/P)

Basic to Intermediate Japanese Language
Konichi wa! Are you Interested in Japanese culture? Do you like Japanese music, card games, video games, Japanese anime’ and movies, but want to know what they are saying? (The English versions are never as good as the original!) Have you always loved the way the language sounds? Come join us! Japanese is much easier to learn than it might seem. On your first day you will be saying fun things in Japanese and write something using Japanese characters. (C/W)

- In America: How Do I?…Where Do I? … Where Is?… What Does This Mean?
… What Is This? ….. Moving to a different country can be difficult. We can help!  Shop; use the phone book; schedule a doctor or dentist appointment; get a driver’s license; register for schools; translate unfamiliar terms and phrases; explain unfamiliar items;  customs & holidays: what to serve at an American dinner/kid’s birthday party/picnic. Bilingual guide. (C/W/P)

- GIANT ORIGAMI – with Groups, Schools or Organizations
Make giant (5′) origami cranes (or your choice), as seen in the “Reading Eagle” and at Baldwin Brass June 2009. The students loved doing this and talked about it non-stop! (W)