Asian Heritage Month, celebrated each May across Canada, recognizes the diverse cultures, histories and enduring contributions of Asian communities — from East, South, Southeast, Central and Western Asia. This month provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on their unique journeys and rich legacies, highlighting their roles in shaping our society.
At Seneca Polytechnic, our commemorations emphasize meaningful connections to Asian heritage through culturally significant performances, art forms and traditions. By highlighting authentic practices, we foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the distinct cultural identities within our community. We invite you to join in and discover the diversity of Asian experiences through the activities and learning opportunities at Seneca for Asian Heritage Month.
Shuichi is among the leading Kintsugi artists in the world, having trained in Japan for nearly two decades. His work, rooted in traditional beliefs and techniques, is of exceptionally high quality and has earned him a strong reputation among museums, antique collectors, and individuals in need of restoration services. As a dedicated ambassador of authentic Japanese culture, he also shares his knowledge through lectures and workshops, inspiring a deeper appreciation for Kintsugi’s philosophy worldwide.
Born in Japan, Shuichi has been deeply connected to the arts throughout his life, engaging with various artistic disciplines from an early age. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, he developed a profound understanding of human cognition, perception, and expression, which he applies to his work as both an art dealer and a Kintsugi artist. His keen eye for detail and thoughtful approach to clients’ artistic preferences have made his services invaluable to collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
Through his artistry, Shuichi not only restores physical objects but also helps others rediscover beauty in imperfection, echoing the timeless philosophy of Kintsugi. He continues to expand his efforts to promote traditional Japanese craftsmanship while bridging cultural gaps around the world.
K2100, Building K (CITE), Newnham Campus
Join the Office of Reconciliation & Inclusion (ORI) for a hands-on workshop hosted by Shuichi from #introjapan. Rooted in Japanese tradition, Kintsugi is the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, embracing flaws as part of an object’s history. This workshop will focus on Maki-e, the decorative application of brass powder on a pendant top. The guided two-hour session will include a lecture on Kintsugi and its cultural significance. Participants are welcome to bring their lunch to enjoy during the lecture portion of the session. All materials are provided.
Spots are limited and registration is required.
Email the ORI for access needs.
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 | 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Location to be confirmed
Student Services, the Reconciliation and Inclusion team and the Seneca Student Federation (SSF) are hosting a tea and food tasting of the region. Learn about the culinary culture of a range of various Asian regions. Students will be sharing their culinary experiences with the community and how tea practices and food culture impact their lived experiences.
All are welcome to attend, registration is not required.
Email the Office for Reconciliation & Inclusion for access needs.
Check out the newest resource from the ORI team. Field Notes offers a collection of resources that the team has personally engaged with, reflected on and found meaningful in their own learning. This edition is specific to Asian Heritage Month, and offers resources to deepen awareness and support inclusive practice.
Read Field Notes
Explore the achievements, contributions, and experiences of Asian in Canada with this curated selection of ebooks, streaming videos, journal articles and websites from Seneca Libraries. These resources provide insights into their rich histories, highlighting their impact on society both past and present.
Check the Resources
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Seneca's Art Collection, displayed on our campuses, represents Canadian artists from across our nation and ethnicities. The nearly 400 pieces include paintings, sculptures, drawings, videos, textiles and prints. Our feature for Asian Heritage Month is Cloudscape by artist Xiaojing Yan. This piece reinterprets auspicious cloud motifs into delicate three-dimensional paper-and-reed forms. Yan, a first-generation Chinese-Canadian artist merges her bicultural heritage with a contemporary aesthetic to explore materiality and meaning.
Visit the Level 2 stairwell near the Welcome Desk, Building A at Newnham Campus to experience Cloudscape up close, or learn more about the piece in the art repository.
Stop by the cafeteria at King, Newnham and Seneca@York campuses from Monday, May 5 to Friday, May 30 to celebrate Asian culture across the diaspora through cuisine.
Seneca Dining Services is selling weekly rotating features, such as General Tso crispy chicken, Korean cheese corn poutine and togarashi black bean burgers.
Seneca Pan Asian Network (SPAN) is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where South and East Asian employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Through cultural awareness, professional development opportunities and advocacy, we strive to empower Asian employees to reach their full potential and contribute positively to the vibrant tapestry of the postsecondary.
To join SPAN, please reach out to ri@senecapolytechnic.ca
Student Support Groups are designed to create a warm and welcoming environment where equity-deserving students who share similar identities and experiences can connect. Unlike traditional clubs that might require active participation and substantial time commitment, our groups offer a haven for you to simply show up, be yourself, and forge genuine connections. The groups are facilitated and led by student ambassadors, and include two options: one for South Asian students and another for Southeast and East Asian students.
To join a Student Support Group, please reach out to matthew.harris@senecapolytechnic.ca
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