The Howland Cultural Center announces its first celebration of National Asian-American History Month during May. An art exhibition featuring seven Asian-American artists of the Hudson Valley will take place from May 3 through 31 with an opening reception from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 3. The celebration continues when Hiroya Tsukamoto, guitarist, singer, songwriter, and composer, performs at the center’s monthly Coffeehouse at 8 p.m. on May 3.
Zheng Xuewu of Poughkeepsie, Eda, also Poughkeepsie, Bibiana Huang-Matheis, from Pawling, Rieko Fujinami, Cold Spring, Insun Kim and Hiro Ichikawa from Beacon, and Dewey Lee of Poughkeepsie will exhibit paintings, sculpture, photography, and specific site installations.
Six guest artists from China will participate in the exhibition. These artists are part of an exchange between the USA and China, called China Arts Link. All exchange artists become members of the Arts Mid-Hudson and spend approximately one to two months in Dutchess County. Ten American artists are presently in China as part of the exchange.
The history of Asian immigrants in this country is one of a long, painful struggle for acceptance and equality. Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders suffered decades of prejudice and discrimination, unjust working conditions, and exclusion from the national social structure, yet they excelled.
Following the reception, viewing hours will be from 1 to 5 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. Tickets at the door: $10. Refreshments available. The Howland Cultural Center is located at 477 Main St., Beacon. Call 845-831-4988.
