MOCA TALKS with Joanna C. Lee and Ken Smith

Since the debut of their Pocket Chinese Almanac at MOCA in 2010, Joanna C. Lee and Ken Smith have become a cherished part of our Lunar New Year celebrations. Known for their blend of cultural expertise and keen foresight, their annual predictions have become a trusted guide for navigating the year ahead with wisdom and clarity.

This year, join us in understanding the Year of the Snake, a symbol of intelligence, elegance, and transformation. Joanna and Ken will guide us through the almanac’s insights, sharing traditional practices and preventive measures for embracing the mysterious and graceful energy of the Snake.

The Chinese almanac, known as Tong Sing in Cantonese and Huang Li in Mandarin, is a treasure trove of cultural knowledge. Covering everything from household tips to medical remedies, it plays a vital role in Chinese family life. Its detailed forecasts, identifying auspicious and unfavorable days for various activities, have long been a cornerstone of tradition.

About the Speakers

Joanna C. Lee is a recovering pianist with a doctorate in musicology from Columbia University. An active translator and interpreter, she has served such luminaries as former US President Jimmy Carter, film directors Luc Besson and Peter Greenaway, and Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan.

Ken Smith writes about Asian arts and culture for the Financial Times and other publications. He is the author of Fate! Luck! Chance! … the Making of The Bonesetter’s Daughter Opera. He speaks Chinese fluently in many different dialects.

Host or Publisher Museum of Chinese in America