CHICAGO, IL (June 21, 2007) – The role of narrative and ritual in Japanese design will be the subject of "I See My Shoe," an exhibit highlighting Harrington College of Design's 2007 International Studies Program in Japan.

Students of interior design and digital photography have created a context for viewing traditional arts – the tea ceremony, kabuki drama – as well as 21st century Tokyo architecture and interiors. Kite imagery, interactive displays and an abstract tea house will challenge the viewer to see Japan differently.

“Many who haven't visited Japan carry expectations about its culture,” said Crandon Gustafson, Interior Design Department Chair and faculty leader. “Our students navigated the layers, both literal and figurative, using drawings and photographs to transform their vision.”

An opening reception July 18, 2007 at 5 p.m. will give visitors a chance to hear the students' firsthand accounts of their experiences studying in Japan in April and May. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit will be open through July 31, 2007 in the Harrington College of Design street gallery at 200 W. Madison, Chicago.

About Harrington College of Design

Harrington College of Design is a four-year college that offers flexible scheduling for a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Interior Design, an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Interior Design or Digital Photography and a new Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Communication Design. Harrington is committed to creating the next generation of design professionals to lead and serve the global community.

Harrington has been a member of Chicago's design and higher education communities since 1931. Located at 200 W. Madison St., Harrington seeks to foster an environment that maximizes students' intellectual and artistic potential. The majority of the faculty is practicing interior designers, architects, photographers and fine art professionals.

Harrington is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award associate degrees and bachelor's degrees. The college is also an institutional member of the National Association of Schools and Art and Design (NASAD). Harrington is recognized as a private college by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), and is authorized by the IBHE to confer baccalaureate and associate degrees. The Interior Design Program leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, www.accredit-id.org, 146 Monroe Center NW, Suite 1318, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-2822. 

For more information, call 312.939.4975 or visit www.harringtoncollege.com.