The Asia Institute Crane House hosts AAPI month event in Louisville with Speed Art Museum

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- May is Asian American Pacific Islander Month, and Friday night people enjoyed local AAPI artists in Louisville.

"AAPI means a lot to me. I feel, ever since working at the Crane House, I feel really connected to the community here, and I feel happy other people know it is AAPI month," Amber Ma, program director at the Asia Institute Crane House, said.

The Crane House Institute locally promotes Asian cultures and heritage through education, outreach and art.

Friday evening, it partnered with the Speed Art Museum to celebrate Asian American cultures after hours.

There were Henna stations, a lion dance, and full contact karaoke.

"We are going to offer some art making, paper fan art making, and Chinese calligraphy. If you are curious to know your name in Chinese, this is a great time to get your name translated," Ma said.

The Asia Institute Crane House also has several other events planned for AAPI month.

On May 23, from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Louisville Zoo, the Crane House Institute is going to attend the Wild Lights show. It's the fifth annual Asian lantern festival in Louisville. Every year, it illuminates dozens of light displays, sharing the stories of ancient Chinese myths and legends. Mak-mak's Barbecue and Rice Now will also have live entertainment and a food truck.

On May 28, from 7-8 p.m. on the Crane House's second floor, it will host a book club with the Louisville Pride Foundation. Together, the organizations will discuss "Another Appalachia" by Neema Avashia.

On June 2, from 3-5 p.m. at the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts' South Lobby, the nonprofit will also have an Asian American exhibit on display. It will also include performances and fun crafts for children.

Earlier this month, The Asia Institute Crane House also hosted a language corner, where people were able to practice their Chinese with native speakers.

"With such a small percentage of Asian population we hold here, it really means there is a lot to us to see that there are so many interests in the greater Louisville community, to show an interest in Asian culture and heritage," Ma said.

If you have any questions, call 502-635-2240 or email aichreservations@gmail.com.

For more information about The Crane House Institute, click here.