Events Dec. 5-8: Through the Eye of the Needle, Basket Weaving, Holiday Tour, and the Tori Project

See the world premiere of the documentary, “Through the Eye of the Needle” at the 22nd annual Washington Jewish Film Festival. Based on the life story of Holocaust survivor Esther Nisenthal Krinitz who went beyond storytelling to show to her daughters the painful images of loss and survival during her childhood in Poland. To do this, Krinitz created a series of 36 hand-stitched, embroidered fabric panels that are now on display at the Ripley Center. The film uses interviews from before Krinitz’ 2001 death as well as footage of family members and others. Tickets available online. 6:15 to 7 p.m. D.C. Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW.

Tuesday, December 6 Basket Weaving

Julie Parker, master basket weaver of the Me-Wuk and Kashaya Pomo tribes of Northern California, leads this fascinating demonstration workshop. Parker is a Cultural Specialist at the Yosemite Museum and one of the most renowned Native basket-makers in the country. Her work is included in the collections of the Smithsonian Institution, as well as the private collection of Queen Elizabeth II. Drop in and join Parker in this all-day demonstration of her exquisite craft. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. American Indian Museum, Potomac Atrium.

Wednesday, December 7 Smithsonian Gardens Holiday Tour

Deck the Halls! Take a festive holiday tour of the Institution’s gardens, decked out in their finest holiday decorations. The tour, led by Gardens Education Specialist Cindy Brown, will feature interesting information on history and helpful how-to tips. After winding through the Enid A. Haupt and Mary Livingston Ripley outdoor gardens, the tour will head inside the Castle where participants will get to see the Smithsonian’s annual holiday tree. The event will conclude inside the Ripley Center, where everyone will get the chance to make their own botanical decorations. Tickets are $39 for Residents Associates Members, and $52 for the general public. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with tours also offered Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10. Meet outside the South entrance to the Smithsonian Castle.

Thursday, December 8 The Tori Project

In this groundbreaking musical event, four Korean performers will collaborate with three New York-based improvisational artists to explore the variations and melodies of traditional Korean folk song in a contemporary context. The musicians will perform on instruments such as the shakuhachi (bamboo flute), geomungo (stringed instrument) and janggu (double-headed drum). Free, with tickets required. 7:30 p.m. Sackler Gallery, Meyer Auditorium.

For a complete listing of Smithsonian events and exhibitions visit the goSmithsonian Visitors Guide. Additional reporting by Michelle Strange.

Joseph Stromberg | | READ MORE

Joseph Stromberg was previously a digital reporter for Smithsonian.