HOUSTON – There’s so much to explore in Houston Southeast — from universities and museums to restaurants and the arts. One of the many highlights is Asia Society Texas, a world-class center for the arts in the Museum District that connects Houstonians to Asia’s vibrant cultures through festivals, exhibitions, performances, and conversations.
On Houston Life, reporter Lauren Kelly sat down with Sumaira Dharani, Director of Education and Outreach at Asia Society Texas, to talk about the organization’s mission and the exciting lineup of events happening now and in the months ahead.
“Asia Society is a space where we explore the vibrant diversity of Asians and Asian Americans here in Houston,” Dharani shared. “We inspire empathy and foster understanding of how interconnected our world is through a variety of programming.”
Exhibitions On View
One current must-see is Hung Hsien: Between Worlds, a retrospective celebrating the groundbreaking ink painter, who is also a Houston local. The exhibition features more than 50 works spanning her 70-year career and is on display until September 21.
Asia Society Texas also offers hands-on learning in its Explore Asia gallery, where visitors can ride a virtual bullet train, try out interactive drumming, or even build a digital bento box while discovering five Asian countries through food, music, and culture.
Events to Experience
The calendar is packed with cultural celebrations that bring Houston together. This weekend, August 30, Asia Society Texas will host the 19th Annual Texas Classic Sumo Tournament, a lively event where guests can watch live sumo matches, shop from local vendors, and enjoy the exhibitions on site.
Looking ahead, Broadway legend Lea Salonga - best known as the voice of Disney’s Mulan and Princess Jasmine - will perform on September 13 at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Then in October, Asia Society Texas opens The House of Pikachu: Art, Anime, and Pop Culture, an immersive exhibition celebrating the global impact of anime with works by artists from around the world.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re drawn in by visual art, community festivals, anime culture, or world-class performances, Asia Society Texas offers something for everyone. Take a look at their calendar of events HERE.
To explore more of what’s happening in Houston Southeast, visit HoustonSE.org, call 713-942-0500, or follow @HoustonSoutheast on Instagram.