Flushing Town Hall is currently home to an exhibition that is making its debut in the United States.
“Talismans of Protection from Choson Korea: Antique Locks, Latches and Key Charms” opened on October 10 and will be on display through January 31. It is on loan from the Lock Museum in Seoul.
“It’s just so exciting,” Flushing Town Hall Executive Director Ellen Kodadek said. “It’s a huge honor to have this exhibit here.”
Kodadek explained that Flushing Town Hall is not only interested in having programming that reflects the diversity of Queens, but also programming that honors its immediate community. Because of the number of Korean people living in the area, they decided to focus on programming related to their culture.
While speaking with members of The Korean Society, which is co-presenting “Talismans of Protection,” Kodadek learned of the exhibition. A small portion of the exhibit is at the society’s Manhattan office. About 200 pieces are on display at Flushing Town Hall.
“I think one of my first impressions was the very simple, decorative beauty of each of the pieces we have here,” Kodadek said.
Kodadek said the embroidered pieces are bright and vibrant, while the metal and wood pieces are “skillfully embellished” and are all individualized. She also said that there is an individual attention and craftsmanship given to each of the pieces that, although taken for granted today, is beautiful and extraordinary.
The items are from the Choson Dynasty, which was from 1392 to 1910. Describing it as a very interesting exhibition, Kodadek said that it is beautiful, educational and is a great opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions of locks and key charms.
There will also be several programs held in connection with the exhibition. At 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts composer in residence David Schober will perform music that was inspired by his time living in Korea.
Also on November 1, at 3:30 p.m., Flushing Town Hall will host Salon Sunday. Artists will be able to show slides of their work and discuss them. The public is invited to attend, as well.
During Saturdays, November 7, 13, and 21, there will be a series of workshops to learn about traditional Korean knotting, known as Maedeup. The sessions will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will be led by artisan Karen Ahn.
“Talismans of Protection” also kicks off the newly started season at Flushing Town Hall. Other events that will be taking place are interactive workshops, dance performances, jazz concerts, and various holiday events.
Kodadek said that, along with featuring a diverse group of artists, Flushing Town Hall is welcoming audiences that are just as diverse. She said that Flushing Town Hall introduces its audiences to new cultures, new heritages and forms of art that they may not have previously been familiar with.
“Everything that we do is there to respect our community, reflect our community and also provide that sense of discovery,” Kodadek said.
“Talismans of Protection from Choson Korea: Antique Locks, Latches and Key Charms” can be viewed during gallery hours, which are Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Boulevard. For more information and to see a complete list of the season’s events, visit www.flushingtownhall.org or call 718-463-7700.
