May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing AANHPIs contributions and influence over U.S. culture, history, and achievements. This year, join us as we celebrate and recognize how the AANHPI community has contributed to Bentonville’s culture and community through art, food, and more!  

 

We’re eager to celebrate AANHPI heritage in May and throughout the year with educational art experiences, local dining, and more!

 

Check out these ideas for celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage in Bentonville in May and year-round:

 

Discover Artwork by AANHPI Artists  

Art is on every corner in this city. From sculptures, murals, paintings, and more, Bentonville is covered. Here’s a list of just a few of the not-to-miss artworks by AANHPI artists on view around Bentonville.

Scout out artwork at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art:

Yayoi Kusama, who has several works on view throughout the museum. Find her Infinity Mirrored Room in the Contemporary Art Gallery and two other outdoor installations on the Crystal Bridges trails. 

 

Here are some additional artists to look out for as you peruse the galleries:

 

Maya Lin, whose sculpture Silver Upper White River, is on view outside of the Modern Art Gallery.

 

Yasuo Kuniyoshi, whose painting Little Joe with Cow and Abstract drawing is currently on view in the Modern Art Gallery.

Find AANHPI Public Art: 

Yayoi Kusama, Narcissus Garden, 1996—1800 stainless steel sphere, just off the south lawn at Crystal Bridges. Collection of Oz Art NWA

Dine at AANHPI-Owned and Inspired Bentonville Restaurants:

There are so many delicious AA/nhPI-owned and inspired Bentonville restaurants! Dine at one of the restaurants on this list, and celebrate the influence of Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander culture on Bentonville’s dining scene:

Check out our Bentonville Dining Guide to explore more AANHPI-owned and inspired restaurants.

 

Attend the 2024 Bentonville Film Festival

Bentonville Film Festival

This year, be sure to grab a pass to the Bentonville Film Festival June 10-16. This year’s programming features storytellers and talent, with 51% who identify as BIPOC, Asian, or Pacific Islander, according to Variety. Check out the full festival program here.

Pick Up a Book:

From area bookshops to public libraries, you’ve got options to find new reading material exploring and celebrating AANHPI authors:

 

 

Connect with AANHPI communities and history in Northwest Arkansas:

Ra-ve Cultural Foundation—A registered non-profit dedicated to promoting Indian performing arts in NWA.

 

Arkansas Coalition of the Marshallese—To empower the Marshallese community through culturally sensitive programs through education, leadership, policy advocacy, and holistic services.

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses - May 16, 2024 Pitch Contest for Asian businesses with over $2,750 in Prizes. RSVP to the event here!