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Korean pop music, or K-Pop, has taken the world by storm. Groups like BTS and BLACKPINK have both topped global music charts and generated fanbases that have used their fandom for social change. And yet, few people may know about K-Pop’s surprising roots and origins, which have everything to do with the influence of Black American dance and music. In this workshop, we trace the history of K-Pop to explore the relationships between Black, Asian, and Asian American popular culture. We raise questions like, How and when did Asian culture become cool? and What do Asian and Black cultures owe to each other? Participants will come away with a deeper understanding of the differences between cultural appreciation, appropriation, and exchange. In recognizing K-Pop’s massive global appeal, we consider how the genre can, in BTS’s words, “help the world.” 

Boba milk tea has become a global phenomenon. It has also become an emblem of Asian American identity and culture. But where does this tasty drink come from, and what does it mean that it is such a popular object of consumption? In this workshop, we treat boba as more than "just a drink." We uncover the history of boba as it relates to colonialism, capitalism, and globalization. Participants will explore the relationships between food, identity, and politics. All will come away with a cultural history to chew on. 

If you were to draw an Asian person, how would you start? You may want to emphasize the shape of the eye or include a culturally specific detail like a bindi. But is this racist? This workshop dives into the history of Asian representation through comics and cartoons. We touch upon the “yellow peril” caricatures of the 19th century, the popularization of anime and manga, and the rise of Asian American graphic artists representing themselves. Participants will explore the tensions between fetishization, erasure, and fantasy, thus raising the question– Can animation transcend race? 

In this workshop, we discuss why this film has been so significant for Asian American representation. We look closely at a few scenes from the film to pick apart what the film is doing from an artistic point of view, and conduct a discussion about what the film means to the participants. Attendees come away with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the film itself, as well as tools for understanding why representation matters.  

Excited about themes that are not listed? Schedule a consultation with us  tell us what you're interested in. We can create a workshop just for you!