Joys of toys

Toys are often viewed as frivolous playthings, but many people would argue that simple and basic toys are essential for child development.

'Whimsical World: Toys Across Asia' On display: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, noon to 4 p.m. Sundays, through Feb. 16 Place: East-West Center Call: 944-7177 Special Events: Family Festivity Day: Bring a favorite toy to share and walk through the gallery with curator Michael Schuster, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Lecture: University of Hawaii librarian Diane Perushek speaks on her collection of tops, 2 p.m. Jan. 21. Simple Filipino Games: A hands-on workshop sponsored by UH's Timpuyog Organization, 2 p.m. Jan. 28

Michael Schuster, curator of the "Whimsical World: Toys Across Asia" exhibit, is one of those folks. "Toys help children realize their own powers and to adjust to the grown-up world. Toys are an institution of social education, cohesiveness and pleasure between people," Schuster said. And adults use toys to form and strengthen social ties and teach the young.

Despite the modern surge in technological advancements in toys now developed for children, many traditional items, such as kites, tops and puppets, have survived throughout Asia, Schuster explained.

Samples of these colorful figurines, games and movable toys are on display at the East-West Center. Traditional toys from China, Taiwan, Japan, Pakistan, Korea, Burma/Myanmar, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, India and Sri Lanka are represented.

"Many of the objects are made out of the most simple materials available to people," Schuster added. "They continue an important tradition that reflects local customs and legends."

National Geographic photographer Paul Chesley brings the toys to life with photos taken throughout Asia. A video presentation with Schuster is also continually run so onlookers can see how the toys on display actually work.

The toys display connectivity throughout Asia, although the designs might differ, Schuster said. Cultural influences from other countries are also reflected in the designs.

So whether it is a toy dragonfly that balances on a child's finger or a puppet elaborate enough to be seen onstage, toys show us the world in a minuscule form.