Sights and Sounds is your weekly guide the Bay Area arts scene through the eyes and ears of local artists. During the pandemic, we're offering suggestions for ways to experience art and culture from home and through social distancing. This week, host Jenee Darden speaks with photographer Andria Lo & writer Valerie Luu. They are creators of the book Chinatown Pretty.
Chinatown Shorts: You Are Here
San Francisco filmmaker James Q. Chan created this series of short films about Chinatown. The first season features stories of personal and community transformation during times of crisis and hope. These shorts were captured before and during shelter-in-place. Watch the first season at www.chinatownshorts.com and on Instagram.
Roxie Theater Celebrates Director Wong Kar-Wai
The Roxie Theater in San Francisco, like other movie theaters around the country, has gone virtual. Film lovers can enjoy a mix of classic and indie films from the comfort of their homes. Tickets are only $12 and half of every sale goes to support the theater. The Roxie is known for showcasing different directors This month they're streaming films by the influential Chinese director Wong Kar-Wai or WKW. His work is described as poetic and daring. WKW films often have powerful themes of alienation and memory.
Alive & Present: Cultural Belonging in S.F. Chinatown and Manilatown
Looking for something to do outside while learning a little history? Artist Christine Wong Yap, along with 20 contributors, created this outdoor installation and comic. The comic book includes stories from the community, along with maps for a self-guided tour around Chinatown. Pick up a comic book for a self-guided tour at 41 Ross in San Francisco.
Valerie Luu and Andria Lo are the creators of Chinatown Pretty. The book celebrates the street fashion of seniors living in Chinatowns in North America.
