MIXING RICE: An Asian Restaurant Art Project

Riversdale • Saskatoon • October 2021 - April 2022

Project Concept

MIXING RICE is an Artist in Community Project supported by SK Arts, which aims to transcend three Asian restaurants in the Riversdale community with visual art themed around Asian culinary culture. This project, collaborated by Chinese-Canadian artist Xiao Han and the Riversdale Business Improvement District, spires to gather local artists of diverse backgrounds and owners of Asian restaurants in the Riversdale community to provide solidarity and open a healing dialogue through visual language.

As one of the original settlements to form the city of Saskatoon, Riversdale was an important place for Chinese immigrants to set up business at the beginning of the 20th century. Even to the present day, this district still retains the cultural atmosphere unique to early Chinese diasporas. Despite the vibrant art scene in the neighbourhood, such as AKA artist-run Center, Paved Arts, and The StoreFront, dedicated space for art about Asian culture was rarely seen. This project transforms Asian restaurants beyond simple places for people to indulge in exotic cuisines but accessible public spaces of education, cultural exchange, and aesthetic enjoyment. From October 15, 2021, till April 15, 2022, the team will exhibit artworks within the restaurant space to provide dynamic stimulation for the community by showcasing artworks with a cohesive theme about Asian restaurants and adding the presence of Asian Culinary Culture.

Our utmost sincere gratitude towards our supporters: SK ARTS and Riversdale Business Improvement District.

Exhibition Sites