Whether it’s a painting, porcelain, or beadwork, the artwork on the walls at the Dallas Asian American Historical Society is unique and meaningful. This vibrant collection serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of Asian American experiences in Texas, showcasing the diverse talents and stories of artists from various backgrounds.
“I feel that this front gallery section is really exemplary in that it is representing Asian Texans from across the diaspora,” said Christina Hahn, a key figure in the local art scene. “Historically, we are the children of immigrants, and art is a risky field to take. A lot of us weren’t encouraged to pursue creative fields in that way.” Her words resonate deeply with many who have navigated the complexities of cultural identity while striving to carve out a space in the arts.
Building Community Through Art
After realizing that she and many other Asian Texans often felt excluded from the creative world, Hahn founded the Dallas Asian American Art Collective, also known as DAAART. What began as a small coffee shop meetup two years ago has blossomed into a nonprofit organization with over 200 creatives across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Its mission is clear: to connect and cultivate the Asian American creative community.
“For us, it’s about rooting ourselves in community and being there for one another—holding each other accountable, but also being very proud of our roots and our shared commonalities and culture,” Hahn explained in an interview with CBS News Texas. This sense of belonging is crucial for many artists who have historically felt marginalized.
Asian American Voices in Texas
According to Pew Research, Texas boasts the third-largest Asian population in the U.S., trailing only California and New York. In North Texas, Asians make up 8% of the population, a figure that continues to grow. This demographic shift is reflected in the art scene, where Asian American voices are increasingly gaining visibility.
Leili Arai Tavallaei, an artist and DAAART board member, shared her personal journey, stating that the organization provided her with a sense of belonging as a bicultural and mixed-race artist. “We, as Asian American Texans, have been here since the beginning,” she said. “We’re growing, and usually we’re not the ones getting to tell our stories, so we really appreciate the ability to do that.”
Her experience highlights a common sentiment among artists from underrepresented backgrounds. “Often, you don’t necessarily see yourself even within the Asian community,” Arai Tavallaei noted. “To see DAAART working so hard to make it all inclusive really made me feel confident in the space.” This inclusivity fosters a supportive environment where artists can thrive and share their unique perspectives.
Asian American Cultural Center Vision
DAAART is not just about showcasing art; it also hosts exhibits and workshops, connecting members with valuable opportunities and resources. The organization is actively seeking funding to expand its daily operations and has ambitious plans to open an Asian American cultural center in Dallas. This center would serve as a hub for creativity, culture, and community engagement.
“We have contributed to Texas through the building of railroads, through the contribution of different cuisines, and now as artists,” Hahn remarked. “I’m really excited and grateful for all that has been happening for us and excited for us to keep building together.” The vision for a cultural center reflects a desire to honor the past while paving the way for future generations of Asian American artists.
“I really encourage those in the Asian American community to take advantage of the mic we’re being presented and to show the Texan perspective,” Arai Tavallaei urged. This call to action emphasizes the importance of representation and the power of storytelling in shaping a more inclusive narrative within the broader Texan landscape.
