Did you know there is an association dedicated to Kaleidoscopes? The Brewster Kaleidoscope Society, The BKS, is a society of artists who design and create kaleidoscopes; the galleries and shops who sell kaleidoscopes; and the collectors and museums who appreciate and enjoy them.
This past month, artist David Sugich attended their convention that was internationally hosted in Japan for the first time. He was thrilled. Here's a little bit about his trip.
"So, my wife Nadereh and I returned from the biggest kaleidoscope convention ever and it was in Kyoto Japan. There were over 80 kaleidoscope artists. It was part of the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society conventions and the very first one that was out of the country. The people of Japan really support the arts and this was reflected in the attendance of the people who came. Members of the convention included, gallery owners who carry kaleidoscopes, kaleidoscope collectors, and kaleidoscope artists.. but for the Saturday and Sunday of this convention, it was open to the public. "
"So, my wife Nadereh and I returned from the biggest kaleidoscope convention ever and it was in Kyoto Japan. There were over 80 kaleidoscope artists. It was part of the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society conventions and the very first one that was out of the country. The people of Japan really support the arts and this was reflected in the attendance of the people who came. Members of the convention included, gallery owners who carry kaleidoscopes, kaleidoscope collectors, and kaleidoscope artists.. but for the Saturday and Sunday of this convention, it was open to the public. "
"For both days there were lines around the block all day long. It was quite amazing. We were given helpers at out table to help translate for us.. each table for the non Japanese speaking were assigned a translator. At our table we ended up with 3! I asked them why? And they told me that they had the most fun at our table. We were using flashlights to simulate sunshine and getting the droves and droves of the Japanese people to cover their peripheral vision and look into them with both of their eyes to see the three dimensional images of light and color! It was great watching the shock and amazement on their faces.. Some of the people I took outside with me to see them in the actual sunshine (which there was plenty of while we were there!) From the start to the finish at this convention I was overwhelmed with a feeling of appreciation for my work! To begin with, when we arrived, the center image for the signage and promotional posters was my rainbow star design.. and at the end, I was one of 4 people to win the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society's People's Choice Award! This is the award voted for by the members and attendees of the convention. This is the first and only award I have won with Brewster, and I had to go all the way to Japan to win it! But truly, for me to ever win an award, I am thrilled that it was this one! It dwarfed all the other conventions we've had in terms of public and artist participation, and my wife and I had an amazing experience and are extremely grateful! I sent them the scope which won for their museum, and at this time it is sitting in the mayor's office in Kyoto. Cheers! David "
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