The Cre8sian Project was born from an idea I had to create characters who represented strong qualities in women. Determination, Concentration, Motivation, and Education are all important virtues that lead to success, so these characters were created to embody our strengths, open and unashamed. The number one goal of The Cre8sian Project is to give AAPI women a place to be seen and heard. By offering resources, partnerships with local organizations and businesses that support the AAPI community, and mentorship, we want to continue to inspire AAPI students to become whatever they want to be, and support them through their journeys, wherever it may take them.
A Determin8sian is unstoppable. Able to navigate everything life has to throw at her with the greatest of ease, she destroys any obstacles in her way and crosses the finish line without breaking a sweat!
A Motiv8sian owns the who, what, where, when, why and ni hao! She always knows exactly what she's doing and why she's doing it, and her fierce desire to get the job done will leave you eating her dust!
A Concentr8sian has a laser-like focus. With the flick of a finger, she can create her own forcefield that deflects all distractions. A fiery meteoroid hurtling towards Earth couldn't break her attention!
An Educ8sian has PhDs for days. She surpasses all search engines and seeks knowledge like a tiger stalking its prey. If you have a question, look for her in the hallowed halls of education. She is the Queen of All Answers!
Empowerment begins on the local level. A portion of the proceeds from each item sold benefits the P.E.A.C. program at East West Players in LA and a scholarship program at Positively Arts in Las Vegas, as well as various other non profits that support the AAPI community!
P.E.A.C. is a residency program that brings the EWP programming to local schools, especially those without other arts-education funding. EWP performers lead a weekly after-school program for 7th graders designed to give students a basic foundation in theatre techniques as well as foster awareness and appreciation of class members’ cultural heritage.
Positively Arts believes every child deserves the right to create their own song, however, not every child can afford to write it. Using the arts to EMPOWER, INSPIRE, EDUCATE and HEAL, Positively Arts offers a variety of programs like Broadway Dreamers, Arts in Action, and Get Launched to give students instruction, performance, and mentorship opportunities throughout the year. Their Anti-Bullying and Empowerment Programs provide the tools, coping mechanisms and positive creative outlets for self-expression through artistic discovery and performance.
Yukimi Song is a multi-faceted musician based in Brooklyn. “With a U-Haul and a dream,” Song attended NYU and double-majored in journalism and music, earning her master’s and a postgraduate degree in piano. Though she enjoys teaching both in a studio setting and as a faculty member, a love for performing remains at her core. Song has appeared across the U.S. and Asia–but her favorite project to date is launching The Piano Pod, a podcast combining storytelling, music, education, and community that has hosted around 100 guests–from Grammy winners to neuroscientists! Through this platform, Song curates educational resources to her listening community. Her advice to young artists? “Performing with depth and authenticity requires more than hours in a practice room or appearances on stage—it demands thatyou live… Let life shape your music, not the other way around.” Read on to learn more about Yukimi Song and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!
The Cre8sian Project Access to the Arts Initiative is back! We’re celebrating AAPI Heritage Month by sending students to see shows! Cre8sian Project founder Angela Chan will be sponsoring AAPI female/female identifying high school or college students in the following cities to see the national touring productions of Wicked, Moulin Rouge, & Juliet, and Six!
Kylie Noelle C. Patterson is a young actress based in California–but you might recognize her from theAnnie National Tour! She got her start performing at five years old as a cupcake inBeauty and the Beast through a fine arts program, and now she travels the country performing. Kylie advises her fellow young artists to “Believe in yourself, even when things get tough… it can take time to get your big moment. Be kind to everyone, have fun, and don’t forget to focus on school too.”
With one child Off-Broadway and one one tour, Kylie’s family understands the resources needed for young actors to be successful, and work together to help their dreams come true. Irene, Kylie’s mother, supports her full-time for the duration of the tour while also managing her home and work life. “Irene’s advice to parents of theatre kids? “Make sure your child really loves it, because it’s not always glamorous… And most importantly, always prioritize their happiness and well-being over the business side of things.”
Read on to learn more about Kylie Noelle C Patterson and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts, and how Irene Patterson balances it all!