Working a Fine Line Enthralling Modigliani Exhibit Goes Beyond Artist’s Tragic Life by Gary Tischler They call the wonderfully enthralling new exhibition at the Phillips Collection “Modigliani: Beyond the Myth.” The “myth” being referred to is not really a myth at all. Rather, it’s a question of emphasis. Amedeo Modigliani, an Italian-Jewish artist of compelling originality, is remembered more often than not for his almost cliché-like personal life. In fact, when they invented the cliché of the “starving artist,” they may have had Modigliani in mind. Passionate Public Servant Wife of Finnish Ambassador Cites Family, Embassy as Priorities by Gail Scott Over 11 years and two terms of being the wife of the Finnish ambassador, Etel Valtasaari has seen dramatic changes in Washington’s diplomatic agenda during three successive U.S. administrations under which her husband served. Outside the Borders ‘Mexican Report’ Features 50 Artists With Diverse Styles, Materials by Gary Tischler There’s a remarkable exhibition in Washington running this month called “Mexican Report: Contemporary Art From Mexico”—and it’s so big that it spreads across three venues. Family Portraits Painter de Bray Used Father, Mother, Friends to Model in Historical Depictions by Daniel Brill Any artist can say that his mom and dad were heroes, but only a true talent can actually transform his parents into the most powerful couple in the Roman Empire. Sweet but Sleepy ‘Afterplay’ Explores Character With Conversation, but Has No Plot by Lisa Troshinsky The Studio Theatre’s innovative Russian Winter season is winding down with an endearing but anti-climactic tale that resembles a bedtime fairytale for Anton Chekhov enthusiasts. Games People Play ‘Art of Contest’ Exhibit Shows Evolution of Asian Pastimes by Fresia Rodríguez Cadavid Americans have long spent their pastimes enjoying such games as Parcheesi and chess, although not much is known about the origins of these games. Bringing Out the Beast ‘Goat’ Tackles Taboo and Duality of Love That Can Turn to Insane Hate by Fresia Rodríguez Cadavid Edward Albee’s “The Goat or, Who is Sylvia,” now showing at Arena Stage, is a Greek tragedy gone absurdly funny, holding playgoers in suspense as the twisted fate of a married couple unravels after an affair of sorts is revealed

Events Listing Featuring art, dance, lectures, music, receptions and theater, our comprehensive listing offers an array of options for those interested in international events. Included is a list of all major event locations in the Washington, D.C., area... Events Locations Sitting Pretty Finnish Designer Aarnio Creates Chairs With Whimsy, Elegance, Sensuality by Michael Coleman The beautiful, airy expanse of the Finnish Embassy’s reception area seemed transformed into a playground with the installation of Eero Aarnio’s whimsical furniture designs. In the Nikkei of Time Latin American Artists of Japanese Descent Fuse Cultures in Fresh Way by Deryl Davis Latin American artists of Japanese descent may not be as well known outside their home turf, but a new exhibit at the Inter-American Development Bank aims to change that. Fluffy White Cloud Dupont Circle Restaurant Offers Modern Eclectic Dishes, Atmosphere by Rachel Hunt and Stephen Qualiana Cloud, at 1 Dupont Circle, is in such a busy area that you can easily miss it. Fortunately the cloud-blue awning points the way in with the round retro bar setting the circular theme for the chilled-out and cozy corner restaurant. International Film Clips Film Locations Desperate Living ‘Schizo’ Depicts Hope for Teen in Bleak Surroundings of Kazakhstan by Ky N. Nguyen “Schizo,” Guka Omarova’s debut feature, may well be the first film from Kazakhstan to receive a theatrical release in Washington, D.C. See Also: ‘Walk on Water’ Danny Boyle Makes ‘Millions’ Truth and Reconciliation Repertory Notes Birth of a Nation Director Boorman Captures Life in Post-Apartheid South Africa by Ky N. Nguyen Veteran director John Boorman recalled the genesis of his current film, “In My Country.”