HOUSTON, June 19, 2013 — Asia Society Texas Center has opened the first Texas exhibition of Universe is Flux: The Art of Tawara Yūsaku, on view now through September 15, 2013. Organized by the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the exhibition is comprised of 77 works, mostly ink on paper and is the artist’s first major retrospective in the United States.

The Center hosted a special preview on June 18. Anchoring the opening celebration on the evening of June 19 was a site-specific gallery performance by Mercury – the Orchestra Redefined, Antoine Plante, Artistic Director. Performing on period instruments, the celebrated chamber orchestra presented an exquisite program of four contemplative works inspired by Tawara’s art and philosophy.

Music was also provided by one of the Texas Center’s favorite locals, DJ Sun. In homage to the art of Tawara, Sun scoured his collection for some of the most compelling jazz and art music from Japan. Completing the night were light bites from Muiishi Makirritos and Little Soya, a special selection of teas from Té House of Tea, local sake from Texas Saké Company, and stunning ikebana flower arrangements by Sushila Mathew, Ohara Ikebana School.

Seen in the crowd: Nancy Allen, Edward Rudge Allen III and Chinhui Juhn, Daniel Aparviz and Suzan Shagagi, Rose Chen, Marty and Kathy Goossen, Elaine Kennedy, David Lake, Debbie McNulty, Judy Nyquist, Kayoko and Michiaki Okada, Mari Omori, David Ruiz, John Teramoto, Nancy Wozny, and Tina and Josh Zulu.