Let's Talk About Heritage
Community Discussion

November 23rd, 2024
Community Discussion

On November 23rd, the Heritage Museum of Asian Art hosted an engaging and thought-provoking community discussion on heritage, featuring esteemed guests from diverse cultural and artistic backgrounds. The roundtable brought together Shireen & Afzal Ahmad from the South Asia Institute, Tatsu Aoki from Asian Improv Arts Midwest, Briana Thomas from the Abrahamic Center for Cultural Education, Sara Zalek from Butoh Chicago, and scholars Phillip Chen and Lenore Metrick-Chen.

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The discussion fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas, with an enthusiastic audience, many of whom are passionate about educating through art. Speakers shared their perspectives on the evolving landscape of cultural heritage, offering valuable insights into the intersection of art, identity, and community engagement. The energy and dialogue from the evening have sparked exciting ideas and possibilities for future collaborations, with a collective commitment to continuing these vital conversations.

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The event left participants feeling hopeful and inspired, reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation and innovation in today’s world. Inspired by the Year of the Dragon, the event embraced the powerful symbolism of the Chinese Dragon, Loong. This mythical creature—combining features of a camel’s head, cat’s eyes, deer’s horns, serpent’s body, carp’s scales, and eagle’s claws—embodies the unification of diverse forces striving for excellence. Its strength lies in the coordination of its many elements, mirroring the immigrant experience and the collective efforts of our communities in the realms of art and culture.

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The concept of inheritance was also explored—not just as the preservation of heritage, but as an active process of keeping traditions alive. Inheriting means embracing responsibility, fostering growth, and committing to a journey of nurturing, dedication, and continuous reflection.

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers and participants for their meaningful contributions. Your insights have provided new perspectives and opportunities, and we are excited to continue this dialogue and build future collaborations that celebrate and sustain cultural heritage.