The East-West Center, located on the campus of the University of Hawaii, was set up in 1960 by the American Congress with the aim of promoting better relations and understanding between the people of Asia and of the Pacific and of the United States of America through common education and research. The center initially concerned itself with cultural exchanges but over the years has turned to more practical issues such as technology, economy and population problems.
Since 1961 more than 30,000 men and women, two-thirds of them from Asian countries and the Pacific, have taken part in courses run by the East-West Center. Every year more than 200 research grants are awarded. In addition, 400 students who study at the University of Hawaii for their degree or thesis, take part in projects and events organized by the center. Its work is financed by the United States of America, Asian countries, endowments and donations.
Belonging to the East-West Center is the Imin Conference Center, with rooms for between ten and 300 people. It was designed by the famous architect I. M. Pei. In the stairwells can be seen the well-known wall paintings by two artists - the Hawaiian Jean Charot and the Indonesian Affandi - which they created during their time at the East-West Center. In Charlot's work hands surround flames - a symbol of human endeavor and creativity. Affandi's fresco portrays the wisdom of the orient - in the palm of God's hand are three wise Asians, Ghandi, a Buddhist monk and the Indonesian legendary figure Semar.
In the John A. Burns Hall (named after the second Governor of the State of Hawaii) the center's art collection is on display. It consists mainly of gifts from the Asian and Hawaiian artists who have worked in the center.
A Japanese garden with a tea house, a Thai pavilion made of teak (a present from King Bhumipol Adulyadej) and a grove of plumerias are worth visiting.
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