It is the only independent non-profit museum and resource center in Lao PDR dedicated to the collection, preservation, and interpretation of the traditional arts and lifestyles of the country’s ethnic groups. TAEC has won international recognition for its engaging and professional exhibitions, community outreach, and livelihoods activities.

TAEC recognizes the responsibility it has to the communities and living cultures it represents, and prioritizes linkages to and empowerment of source communities through its exhibitions. Currently, TAEC’s Museum Shop supports supplemental livelihoods for over 500 handicrafts producers and their families, primarily women, in 12 provinces of Lao PDR.

TAEC’s permanent collections include over 400 cultural artifacts from more than 30 of the ethnic groups of Lao PDR, including:

• Costume/clothing
• Accessories and jewelry
• Handicraft tools
• Equipment and household articles
• Religious and ceremonial objects

The collections also include video, photos and reference materials.

According to culture360.asef.org