ARTIST GALLERY 2023
The exhibits at Asia Pacific Cultural Center, 3513 East Portland Avenue, Tacoma 98404 (our temporary address) is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 pm. Please let the office know of your visit by calling 253-383-3900.
Our new featured artists now showing at the APCC Gallery thru January 2024
Please join us to celebrate these accomplished artists on December 2nd from 3:00-5:00 for an artist reception with Khmer food and drinks to accompany the art and meet the artists!
EIn a historic first, Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC) proudly presents an all-Cambodian art exhibition, featuring the compelling works of two remarkable artists, Vuttha Oum and Tony Keo (Rachana) Phuong. With a combined total of 16 original artworks, this exhibition unveils a poignant narrative shaped by the tumultuous history of Cambodia, the artists' resilience, and their subsequent artistic evolution in the United States.
APCC proudly hosts the works of these two exceptional artists until January 24, 2024. This exhibition is not only a celebration of artistic talent but also a testament to the resilience of the Cambodian spirit. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating stories told through 16 original artworks that bridge the past, present, and future.
A Journey of Resilience: Vuttha Oum's Story
Vuttha Oum's artistic journey begins in the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge Communist Regime. In 1979, as a young boy, Oum escaped the war-torn country, seeking refuge in Washington State after enduring the hardships of the refugee camps in Thailand. It was there that he first discovered his passion for art, attending art school and mastering the intricacies of drawing, painting, and wood carving.
Oum's talent quickly shone through, earning him the top prize in an art painting competition in the refugee camp in 1980. During his time in the camp, he actively contributed to the community, volunteering for Save the Children. His artistic endeavors extended beyond traditional canvases, as he painted stage backgrounds for performing arts and created road signs.
Despite facing adversity, Oum's determination to support his family led him to sell his artwork. In 1981, he embarked on a new chapter, immigrating to the United States. Settling in Washington, Oum continued his education and artistic pursuits, participating in various art shows and winning accolades, including second place in a high school fine arts competition. Although he chose to focus on a career in civil engineering and technology after high school, the exhibition at APCC unveils a collection of the artworks he carefully preserved—each piece a poignant reminder of his roots and the challenges he overcame.
Today, Vuttha Oum stands not only as an artist but as a leader within the Cambodian communities in Washington State, a testament to his remarkable journey from a war-torn childhood to a position of influence and inspiration.
Bridging Cultures Through Art: Tony Keo (Rachana) Phuong's Perspective
Tony Keo (Rachana) Phuong, a graduate in Visual Communication (Graphic Design) with a degree from the University of Fine Art in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, contributes a distinctive voice to the exhibition. Having fled Cambodia before completing his university studies, Phuong brings a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences to his artworks.
Beyond the canvas, Phuong is an avid outdoorsman, finding inspiration in biking, hiking, and camping. His unique perspective is reflected in his art, which captures not only the struggle of his homeland but also the diverse experiences that have shaped him.
Our new featured artists now showing at the APCC Gallery thru November 8
Artist Reception - October 7th from 4:00-6:00 pm at APCC with artists' introductions at the beginning and mingling with food and drinks. All the artists will be in attendance.
Explore stunning artworks by three exceptional artists on display until November 8, 2023.
Wen-Hsi Tsen was born in Taiwan and paints in acrylic and oil for landscape paintings of deserts, canyons, and forests in a painterly manner with dappled brush strokes catching light on the land.
Anna Choi Lee was born in South Korea and grew up in various countries around the world. Anna offers a variety of subjects from floral, architectural, and abstracted landscapes handling it all with a freshness with each style and subject.
Japanese American, Mizu Sugimura, addresses a deep and important narrative of her mother's dementia through the medium of collage. Mizu bravely and poetically processes the long and difficult experience of her mother's decline as well as the unspoken, hidden issues of how mental health was not part of their family conversation.
APCC Presents Inaugural Art Exhibition Celebrating Samoan and Chinese Artists
The exhibition will kick off with an opening reception on June 26 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm, located at 3513 East Portland Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98404. This event provides an opportunity for art enthusiasts, cultural enthusiasts, and the local community to engage with the artists and gain deeper insights into their creative processes.
Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC) is thrilled to announce its inaugural art exhibition, showcasing the talent and creativity of artists from Samoa and China. Curated by APCC's Board member June Sekiguchi, the exhibition will take place in the center's new temporary building located at 3513 East Portland Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98404. This unique event aims to foster cultural exchange and appreciation while highlighting the diversity of artistic expressions within the Asia Pacific region.
The exhibition will feature the works of two esteemed Samoan artists, Kamu of Kaydrey's Polynesian Tattoo and Marialina Wallace, alongside the captivating artistry of Chinese artist Yichao Zhang. Each artist brings their distinct style and perspective, offering visitors a rich and immersive experience through their artwork.
Visitors will have the pleasure of exploring the artworks on display until September 6th. This extended period allows ample time for individuals to fully immerse themselves in the diverse and thought-provoking collection. The exhibition promises to be an enriching experience, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among attendees.
APCC's inaugural art exhibition is a testament to the organization's commitment to showcasing the vibrant cultures of the Asia Pacific region. By providing a platform for talented artists from Samoa and China, this event aims to foster cultural exchange, celebrate diversity, and encourage dialogue about the transformative power of art.
Artist Yichao Zhang
Our current featured artist now showing at the APCC Gallery
Please join us at her artist reception is March 17, 2023, 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm @ APCC; light refreshments will be served.
Yichao Zhang was born and raised around Zhengzhou, in Henan province, China, in 1999. She lives in America, where she is married to her wife and creates art in multiple styles and mediums.
Her work has been described as having a signature warmth and character unique to her touch. She enjoys exploring queer themes, science fiction, nature, and complex human expression and figures in her work.