Celebrate Culture, Community and Connection

This is our 5th Annual Cultural Expo. This event is a celebration of the arts, storytelling and different self expressions that shape the various unique cultures in Asia. We invite the community to join us to explore some stunning performances, engaging art, and enriching cultural displays. More than just a showcase, the Cultural Expo is a bridge—connecting communities, fostering appreciation, and highlighting the beauty, complexity, and resilience of Asian identity.

Date: May 30, 2026 at 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: National Energy Center of Excellence (NECE) at Bismarck State College – Bavendick Room

ART EXHIBIT

PERFORMANCE SHOWCASE

Featured Artist: Jose Angeles III, also known as “Thirdee”

Jose Angeles III, also known as “Thirdee,” a multi-talented creative from San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines. With a diverse skill set that spans graphic artist, photography & videography, cooking, and cosplay crafting, I built a reputation as a passionate and versatile artist.

Creativity shines most in the world of cosplay, where my craftsmanship has earned multiple awards in various competitions. I dedicate myself to detail and artistic expression is evident in every piece of my creations, reflecting both skill and imagination using Eva foam and 3d printer.

Beyond crafting, I loved capturing moments through photography and videography, preserving stories and emotions through lens. My artistic interests also extend into dancing and music, showcasing his dynamic personality and love for performance.

Featured Artist: David Sorenson and Traci Juhala

David Sorenson is a pianist/composer born in Williston, North Dakota. His compositions and arrangements have been performed around the world and have won numerous awards. As a pianist, he performs regularly around the Bismarck/Mandan area, accompanying both soloists and ensembles. David currently teaches at Bismarck State College where he teaches piano, composition, and percussion lessons and leads the BSC Jazz Band. He also teaches composition lessons at University of Mary.

Traci Juhala grew up playing cello with the string program in Bismarck Public Schools and nurtured her love of music after high school by earning a BA in Music from the University of North Dakota. After earning a graduate degree in Library and Information Science, Traci returned to Bismarck to start her library career, and she rejoined the music community. She is the Music Director at St George’s Episcopal Church and plays with the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra and various smaller ensembles. When not making music, you can find Traci working in Youth Services at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library.

Featured Artist: Dawn S. Kopp

Dawn S. Kopp is a mosaic artist, a native of Mandan, ND and received her B.S. in Apparel & Textiles from NDSU in 2001. Kopp began creating mosaic work in July 2017. Kopp’s fascination with color theory and the idea that beauty can come from brokenness combine in her completed mosaic pieces. Kopp appreciates mosaic art for the embodiment that even the most unbendable, fragile, and unexpected can become part of a larger, stronger, beautiful outcome.

Kopp is the CEO of the Downtowners of Bismarck, a position she has held since May 2007. She lives on Sedum Hill in Bismarck with three delightfully unique felines.

Featured Artist: Kris “Kittyko” Kitko

Kris “Kittyko” Kitko is a musician & educator who performs with ancient acoustic instruments such as Tibetan singing bowls, frame drums & wooden ocarinas. She uses rhythm & natural sound to create a calming musical experience inspired by traditions found across the world.

Featured Artist: Shawn Kaiser

Shawn Kaiser is a North Dakota resident, who grew up in Mandan and now lives in Bismarck with his wife and two boys.

He attended Bismarck State College and earned an Associate of Arts degree in 2001. Following that, Shawn attended the University of Montana for a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in ceramic arts, which he received in 2004.

Shawn currently is a construction worker through the Laborers Local 563. He likes to spend time with his family, and when there is time for hobbies, to make ceramic art and pottery and fishing.

Featured Artist: Boram Chern – Performance on Piano 

Boram studied music in D.C area and lived in New York before moving to North Dakota with her husband about 10 years ago. While helping with his business, she met friends who were curious about Korean culture. One friend, a big fan of BTS, sparked an idea—to create a place where people could gather, share, and explore together.

That idea became K-kota, K-culture in Dakota, founded in 2023. Since then, Boram has hosted a variety of family-friendly experiences, from language and cooking classes to tea tastings, street food events, K-drama gatherings, and even fun sessions like “How to Eat Instant Ramen.” Each program begins with a simple thought: “I’d like to know…” and grows into a shared cultural experience.

The Cultural Expo is made possible by passionate volunteers who help bring this celebration to life! Whether you’re interested in assisting with event setup, guiding guests, supporting artists, or helping at our welcome tables, we have a role for you. Volunteering is a great way to connect with the community, support the arts, and be part of an inspiring event. Contact Joan@ndaaaci.org if you have any questions about volunteering opportunities.