Take a deep dive into Afghanistan in upcoming dialogue

||| FROM DIANE MARTINDALE for SAN JUAN ISLANDS MUSEUM OF ART |||

Afghanistan, one of the poorest and most poorly understood countries in the world, has been a center of revolution, foreign occupation and civil war for over 40 years. Despite our decades of involvement in the country, the human struggles of its people have remained on the periphery of our vision.

Join Rev. Terry Kyllo, Executive Director of Paths to Understanding, and James Longley, photographer and filmmaker, at San Juan Community Theatre on Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m. They will provide an in-depth dialogue about Afghanistan, its people and the challenges that continue to face this ancient land. This event is part of a series Ask Us About Afghanistan, sponsored by the San Juan Islands Museum of Art (SJIMA).

Longley, whose exhibit Looking into Kabul is currently at SJIMA continues until September 12. Through photography and film, Friday Harbor’s Oscar-nominated son presents an intimate image of everyday life in Kabul’s old city.  A documentary film, Sari’s Mother, is about a woman struggling to protect her son in post-war Iraq and Angels Are Made of Light follows students and teachers at a school in old Kabul slowly rebuilding from past conflicts.

Paths to Understanding is a multi-faith peacemaking organization based in Lynnwood. Its purpose is to “bridge bias and build unity through multi-faith peacekeeping.” Kyllo, a Lutheran minister, strives to recognize the unity of the human family.  He is the author of two books, has been featured on radio and television shows, and the is the recipient of multiple awards for his contributions to multi-faith leadership.

Part of the museum’s programming, the Longley/Kyllo dialogue requires no reservations and is a ‘pay-as-you-can’ event underwritten by RaVae Luckhart and Jack Rice, Rob Ray and the Town of Friday Harbor. The San Juan Community Theatre is located at 100 2nd St N, in Friday Harbor.

Also exhibiting at the San Juan Islands Museum of Art until September 12 is LATTICE II, a soaring sculptural installation combining glass, bronze, steel, wood and fiber. Museum hours are Thursday – Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with additional summer hours of Thursday – Saturday, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.  The museum is located at 540 Spring Street, Friday Harbor, WA.