Arab American National Museum Activities

David Serio brings the Arab American National Museum (AANM) to Lakeside with activities and presentations on Tuesday, Aug. 1.

The day starts with a Mosaic Craft Activity from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Rhein Center. Participants will have the opportunity to make their very own mosaic craft tile to take home. Mosaics are a rich form of art that has existed in many Arab countries for centuries. The AANM staff will lead a presentation on the history and culture of mosaics in the Arab World.

From 3:30-5 p.m. in Orchestra Hall, there will be a presentation titled “Telling Our Story – History & Culture of the Arab American Community.” During the presentation, elements of history, culture and contributions of Arab Americans to the United States will be explored.

There will be a discussion of four time periods of immigration, an understanding of the Arab American culture and hospitality, defining the Arab World, highlighting ethnic and religious diversity within the Arab World/Arab American community and a discussion of the Arab Americans who have made an impact on society.

A Dabke Dance takes place from 6-6:30 p.m. at the Bettinger Park Basketball Courts. Participants have the opportunity to learn and dance the dabke, a traditional folk dance performed in several countries of the Arab world, including Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and Jordan.

David Serio is the Curator of Education at the AANM. He holds a master’s degree in near Eastern studies and Arabic from Wayne State University.

Serio joined the AANM in January of 2011. As an Educator and Public Programmer, he conducts educational presentations and workshops both in-person and online. Serio also helps in the planning and implementation of youth programs and cultural events, such as the
SURA Arts Academy, a youth photography program.

Like many of us, he wears multiple hats, including Volunteer Coordinator and Curator of the Arab Film Festival and is in charge of all subsequent film programming at the AANM.

Serio proudly serves on the board of the Anton Art Center, Macomb County Pride, Friends of the Detroit Film Theatre and DAFT.