AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Events: A Kung-Fu Film, An Art Workshop and the Music of John Williams

July 16, 2010

Friday, July 16: Made in Hong Kong Film Festival: Ip Man

A hybrid kung-fu film and biopic, this movie explores the life of Ip Man—the man who later taught Bruce Lee his moves—during the Sino-Japanese War where he rose from a martial arts master to become a partisan fighter battling Japanese invaders. This film is presented in Cantonese, Mandarin and Japanese with English subtitles. Free. Freer, 7:00 PM

Saturday, July 17: Facing History: Be the Artist

Perfect for persons ages 5 and older, this two-hour art class that will help you understand the work of Patricia Horing. Her portrait "Herman oozed charm like a leaky pipe drips water" was a finalist in the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition and is currently on display in the Portrait Gallery. Before the workshop begins, you'll be taken on a brief, guided tour of the show before creating an artwork based on the portrait by Horing. Free, but reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 202-633-8501. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Portrait Gallery, 2:00-4:00 PM

Sunday, July 18: Washington Symphonic Brass Performs John Williams and More

The collection of Norman Rockwell artwork currently on display at the American Art Museum comes courtesy of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. And as many of you may know, the orchestral scores to many of their landmark films come courtesy of John Williams who, before Jaws, Star Wars and Indiana Jones, penned the original (and ultimately unused) theme song to Gilligan's Island. Tonight, the Washington Symphonic Brass performs the music of John Williams as well as music popular during Norman Rockwell's lifetime–such as works by Aaron Copland (you know him—he wrote the theme song for beef), George Gershwin and Leonard Bernstein. Free. American Art Museum, 4:00 PM.

For updates on all exhibitions and events, visit our companion site goSmithsonian.com