Liu Yang, PhD, is the MIA’s curator of Chinese Art and head of the Asian Art Department. He studied in China and Great Britain, and was most recently senior curator of Chinese Art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney. Working for so long on this project, both in Australia and in the States, Liu said, “I feel I had almost become the commander of the Terracotta Army myself!” When the exhibition closes, he would like to stand in front of the alignment and give an authoritative order: “Dismissed!” China, Qin dynasty (221–06 bCe), View of Pit 1 showing the terracotta army lined up at attention facing east
news | opportunities The MIA Thanks Sponsors of “China’s Terracotta Warriors” BRINGING ICONIC WORKS of art from China to the Twin Cities is no easy feat. Consider the time and care needed to transport 8 ancient terracotta warriors, gold and silver ornaments, ceremonial vessels, and other rare artifacts. These are coming to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts this fall as part of “China’s Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor’s Legacy,” opening October 28 in Target Gallery. Through the help of several generous corporate partners, the MIA is able to present this spectacular exhibition to our community—giving visitors the chance to experience more than 120 archaeological discoveries, some of which have rarely been seen outside of China. The MIA thanks JPMorgan Chase, <strong>Fredrikson</strong> & <strong>Byron</strong> P.A., and Delta Air Lines for sponsoring this special exhibition and for helping the museum provide insight into one of history’s most remarkable cultures and time periods. Conducting business throughout the world, these companies understand the importance of both enhancing cultural understanding within local communities and encouraging diverse worldviews through art. “It’s important to help our community learn first-hand about cultures around the world and their histories,” said 24 | 25 Michele Martin, managing director for JPMorgan Chase, the presenting sponsor for “China’s Terracotta Warriors.” “We’re thrilled to partner with the MIA on this once-ina-lifetime exhibition, which tells an amazing story that continues to develop to this day.” <strong>Fredrikson</strong> & <strong>Byron</strong> President John Koneck also sees great significance surrounding this exhibition. “We’re fortunate that the MIA, a world-class institution, can bring renowned works of art from around the globe to Minnesota,” he said. “<strong>Fredrikson</strong> & <strong>Byron</strong> is proud to support such a remarkable show.” Along with the exhibition, visitors can take advantage of public tours, lectures, educational resources, and other programs developed to enhance their experience of “China’s Terracotta Warriors.” At the same time, they are able to take in the MIA’s world-renowned permanent collection of Chinese art. “This exhibition is sure to intrigue and inspire those who experience it,” said Bill Lentsch, senior vice president of Minnesota operations for Delta Air Lines. “Helping to make exhibitions like this possible is a vital part of supporting strong communities where our employees and customers live and work.” The MIA is grateful to these corporate partners, who make exhibitions like this possible. Above: China, Qin dynasty (221–06 BCE), Armored General (detail), terracotta, excavated from Pit 1, Qin Shihuang tomb complex, 1980, Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, 000847 At left: From left, Bill Lentsch, senior vice president of Minnesota operations for Delta Air Lines; Liu Yang, the MIA’s Chinese art curator; John Koneck, president, <strong>Fredrikson</strong> & <strong>Byron</strong>; and Michele Martin, managing director for JPMorgan Chase.