Amherst scholar speaks on invention of national dress in 21st century China

On four Wednesdays in February, the Fine Arts Center Asian Arts and Culture Program presents "Weaving Our Stories," a series of free talks by scholars and artists on topics of popular and unique interests. Highlighting the artistic and cultural arts of Asia, the lectures use the concept of "motif" as a central theme and examine landscapes, nature, and personal expressions seen in Asian culture to understand the significance of these objects from a socio-cultural perspective.

All lectures begin at 7 p.m. and are held in various locations on campus. For more information about the lecture and other talks in the series see the website or call 577-2486.

Augusta Savage Gallery in New Africa House hosts the first lecture on Feb. 6. Paola Zamperini speaks about "Costume-made: The Invention of National Dress in 21st Century China," a talk that includes 21st century narratives about traditional Chinese clothing and the invention and reinvention of Chinese national costume in contemporary popular culture. A special focus of the lecture is costume in the Hanfu movement and contemporary cinematic representations. Zamperini has a Ph.D. in Chinese literature and women and gender studies from the University of California, Berkeley. She is currently associate professor of Chinese literature, director of Chinese studies, and chair in the department of Asian languages and civilizations at Amherst College. Zamperini is also a joint member of the women and gender studies department of Amherst College.

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