Celebrating AAPI Month at Mint Kitchen’s First-Ever Asian Art Market
May 28, 2025 · Fei Wu
We were thrilled to be a part of Mint Kitchen’s first-ever Asian Art Market, held right here in Worcester to celebrate AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) Heritage Month. Despite the rainy weather, the cafe was full of warmth, creativity, and laughter as families, friends, and art lovers gathered to support local artists and small businesses.
Xiang Li Art was proud to showcase a selection of art prints and cards including our popular panda-themed greeting cards. Visitors learned about the story of Xiang Li, former artist at the Forbidden City in Beijing, and her journey bringing ancient Chinese art to contemporary audiences across America.
This beautiful event wouldn’t have been possible without Mint Kitchen’s vision and the incredible team of volunteers, organizers, and guest supporters—including Representative David LeBoeuf, Representative Tram Nguyen, Boa Newgate of RICEMA, and Anh Vu Sawyer of Anh55. Thank you for showing your support and celebrating with us!
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Vendor Highlights
🎨 Shikakibito Aico
Instagram: @shikakibito
Aico, born in Japan and based in the U.S. since 2013, creates healing artwork using watercolor, acrylic, pastel, colored pencil, and crayon. Her pieces are filled with softness and soul—each one meant to add peace to your home.
🐰 Tokkishi
Instagram: @tokkishi.shop
A sweet mother-son shop inspired by Korean and Japanese culture. “Tokkishi” means “Mr. Bunny” in Korean and honors the Year of the Rabbit. Expect charming anime- and gamer-inspired stationery, art, and trinkets that bring joy at first glance.
🖼️ Ryan’s Corner
Worcester native Ryan Luu blends anime with glass art in a striking fusion of pop culture and craftsmanship. Ryan is also a beloved member of the Mint Kitchen team!
👘 Xiang Li Art
Website: xiangliart.com
Instagram: @xiangliart
Xiang Li is an internationally recognized painter specializing in traditional Chinese silk painting with gemstone pigments. Her work, including the Chinese Empresses Collection, has been featured at Harvard Museums and MFA Boston.
🎨 Diana Khong
Instagram: @dianawalksearth
A Vietnamese American artist and filmmaker, Diana creates both visual and wearable art. Her crochet bags and original paintings made beautiful gifts just in time for Mother’s Day.
🪹 Ana-Sofia Sarmiento
With a BFA in Sculpture from MassArt, Ana-Sofia uses sustainable materials like corn husks, avocado pits, and recycled fabrics to create thought-provoking, textured works that blend nature, tradition, and digital art.
📸 Will McCarthy
Instagram: @willxmccarthy
A Japanese-American photographer, Will offered pop-up portraits with high-quality instant prints—a perfect memento or gift, especially for Mother’s Day.
Community Activities
Henna Station – @the_corner_np
Stunning henna art was offered by The Corner with 100% of donations going to earthquake relief in Myanmar.
Face Painting – RICEMA Volunteers
Kids and adults alike lit up with joy as RICEMA volunteers added color to the day with cheerful face painting.
Origami Station – Mint Kitchen Staff
Guests of all ages enjoyed folding origami creations at this interactive table—a lovely hands-on reminder of the power of paper and patience.
🍱 Food & Giving Back
Delicious bento boxes, appetizers, and drinks were available throughout the event, with Mint Kitchen’s signature cozy atmosphere providing the perfect backdrop.
Proceeds and donations helped raise awareness and support for communities in Myanmar affected by the recent earthquake.
Tripti and Dev’s visit at Mint Kitchen (before the event)
Our content strategist and creator Tripti visited Mint Kitchen with her son Dev just before the event. I often feel the project isn’t complete until she sees it! We had so much fun enjoying the art in this wonderful space while enjoying incredible food made by Mint Kitchen. Mint’s owner Trang Le was there too and we immediately took a group photo.
“Mint Kitchen & Bar was honored to be named Small Business of the Year at the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Awards! As a small, family-owned Vietnamese restaurant, we are proud to represent our culture and community through the food and hospitality we love sharing every day. Thank you to our amazing team, loyal guests, and the Chamber for this meaningful recognition—it’s a true celebration of hard work, heritage, and heart.”
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Thank You, Worcester!
Mint Kitchen’s first Asian Art Market was a meaningful and memorable celebration of culture, creativity, and community. We’re so grateful to be part of a city that uplifts its diverse voices and makes space for artists to thrive.
Stay tuned for more events like this. Until then, follow along on Instagram.