FILM WATCHING ASSIGNMENT: ‘The First Monday in May’

1.Reflect on the research methods you see in the film: Which aspects of the Met’s fashion exhibition “China Through the Looking Glass” were researched? Which research methods and techniques were used for each aspect of the exhibition? Do you think the research was effective? Why or why not?

Before the exhibition, curators meticulously researched the previous Haute Couture shows that were inspired by Chinese culture. Designer, John Galliano, revealed that he got mysterious feelings from Chinese culture which enabled him to create garments on the level of romance and fantasy. Moreover, Andrew Bolton, a head curator, visited China to learn about their history. The research was nicely done, based on the fact that the curators collected artworks and coutures that were China related. Exhibition’s art director, Wong Kar Wei, was skeptical with Andrew’s idea of installing artwork that resembles Mao, a Chinese communist revolutionary. Therefore, Andrew amended his piece for those (especially Chinese) who might get offended by it. Curators tried to accept and respect the Chinese culture during preparation.

2.An important theme in the film is the wish to avoid cultural appropriation and the desire to be respectful of ancient Chinese art and design. Do you think that the curators were able to avoid cultural appropriation and present an in-depth understanding of the topic? Why or why not? How did they do so?

Anna Wintour, Met Gala Chairperson, had doubt about installing red dragons on the stairways. She discussed with Baz Luhrmann, an Australian film director, then concluded that dragon is beyond stereotypical when thought of Chinese culture. They inspired by designer Roberto Cavalli’s dress, and decided to instal pieces that resemble Chinese blue ceramic. The Westerners already know that dragon is one of the symbols of China, which makes it cliche. However, majority of them are not familiar with beauty of Chinese ceramic. Anna wanted to prevent idea from viewers that the exhibition is merely about stereotypical Chinese elements. Instead, she wanted them to appreciate the Chinese art and its history by the display. Anna tried to respect the Chinese culture and art that she was about to show.

3.Write 5 research questions that you think the film is exploring. questions that start with “why” or “how”, questions that don’t have a yes/no answer).

-How much Westerners know about Oriental culture?

-How Western fashion designers inspired by Chinese culture?

-What are the appropriate ways to perceive and understand foreign culture?

-Why history is important to understand foreign culture?

-What are the benefits from understanding foreign culture?

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