Play The Texas Coast September - November | Page 18

Every year more than 1500 children, from pre-k through college and various social
clubs, tour the Museum. Programs may focus on a variety of topics including: the
beauty, wonder, and diversity of Asian culture, storytelling and Asian folktales or
hands-on activities such as origami, calligraphy, games, using chopsticks, and dressing in Asian clothing.
In addition to the many educational classes for students and the general public each
year, the Museum also showcases many visiting exhibits from around the world. Past
exhibits have included the oil paintings of artist Hsiao-Hsia Tsai, the Contemporary
Japanese Crafts exhibit on loan from the National Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo
and the Consulate General of Japan, the National Taiwanese Treasure Box exhibit
and many others.
The Museum is host to many events as well. The Lunar New Year celebration and
Lantern Festival, offers a story time, crafts, demonstrations, and even fireworks! The
Spring Festival featured a new exhibit which showcases artifacts from the
Choseon Dynasty. Also on exhibit is traditional Hanbok (Korean clothing) which is
on loan from a descendent of the last emperor of Korea!
There is also a one-of-a-kind Gift Shop at the Museum! It is filled with authentic
Asian treasures, such as beautiful handmade masks and other items which you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. Even the beautifully designed building itself is a true masterpiece. The Museum can also be reserved for special events and the art and antiquities
inside provide the perfect backdrop for that special gathering.
The Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures & Education Center is located at 1809 N.
Chaparral Street and is within walking distance of the American Bank Center (Selena
Auditorium), the Harbor Playhouse, Heritage Park, and other locations of interest.
The Museum is open Tues-Sat from 11am-5pm. Admission: Adults-$6, Senior and
Military-$5, Students-$4 and Children under 12-$3.
For more information about the museum visit their website at asianculturesmuseum.
org or call direct [phone].

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