Illustrating and Translating Words
This JAT session will feature two presentations about the English translation of the 1910 travelogue Ein Spaziergang in Japan (A Walk in Japan). This travelogue conjures up the sights, sounds, and smells of yesteryear Japan. When its aspiring German author, Bernhard Kellermann, arrived in Meiji-era Japan, he drank deeply of a country in transition, wandering the streets of rural fishing towns, falling in love with village beauties, and spending many an afternoon recording in exquisite detail the performances in local theaters.
The first presentation will be given by the translator of the travelogue, Robert Blasiak. Robert will explain some of the challenges of rendering a readable and enjoyable translation. Key points will be highlighted with excerpts from his translation. In the second presentation, Stuart Ayre will talk about how he translated the words of the book into illustrations and introduce the art that influenced the illustrations. He will also walk the audience through the drawing process.
Illustrations from the book and other artwork and prints by Stuart Ayre will be on display.
(This seminar will be held in English.)
Speaker Profiles
Robert Blasiak has over a decade of experience with various aspects of German-English translation. With a specialization in translating texts on international policy and development, it was a pleasant change of pace to spend time with A Walk in Japan. Since 2013, he has been a research fellow at the University of Tokyo focusing on issues of sustainable ocean management and international cooperation.
Stuart Ayre has worked as a full-time translator for ten years in Japan. He currently works as a translation checker and translator at a Japanese law firm in Tokyo and draws the people and streets of Tokyo in his spare time. Stuart studied fine art at university in the UK before moving to Japan, and A Walk in Japan is the first book he has illustrated.
Here is his blog: www.stuart-ayre.com/archive
Date: Saturday, May 28, 2016
Time: 14:00-17:00
Doors open: 13.30
Place: Forum 8, Shibuya (http://www.forum-8.co.jp/access/index.html)
Address: Dogenzaka 2-10-7, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043; Phone: 03-3780-0008
Cost: JAT members 1,000 yen; non-members 3,000 yen (advance registration for the seminar is NOT necessary)
Koryukai: From 17:00 (advance registration IS necessary, pay in cash at seminar reception)
Please register using this form by Tuesday May 17 [JST].
Venue: Forum 8, Shibuya (http://www.forum-8.co.jp/access/index.html)
Koryukai Cost: 3,000 yen (food + drinks)
Inquiries: [email protected]
Robert Blasiak
Stuart Ayre