The conference aims to enhance the integration of arts and culture between Hong Kong, China, and other Asian countries by fostering collaboration among experts, scholars, cultural managers, creators, and practitioners. It seeks to establish a robust foundation for sustainable cooperation and development across the region through the sharing of experiences, policy discussions, and the creation of strategic partnerships.
In her opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Thị Thu Phương, Director of the Vietnam National Institute of Culture and Arts Studies (VICAS), highlighted the steady progress in cultural development, particularly in arts education and training in Vietnam. She emphasized that the conference gathers a distinguished group of speakers, experts, scholars, cultural and educational managers, and accomplished artists from across Asia and Vietnam to discuss pressing issues related to education and the development of human resources in arts and culture within the region, including Vietnam.
Discussions at the conference underscored the pivotal role of education in fostering mutual understanding among Asian nations. With cultural industries undergoing significant shifts and experiencing rapid growth in Asia—particularly in Southeast Asia—the event seeks to address the region’s evolving needs and opportunities for cultural and artistic collaboration.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Danny Yung, founder of Zuni Icosahedron, expressed the belief that the meeting between VICAS and Zuni would bring positive effects. The forum not only fosters a shared understanding of arts education and training but also sets out a concrete plan for long-term cooperation in the future.
Discussions at the forum revealed that cultural industries, cultural diplomacy, and cultural entrepreneurship are receiving increasing attention from nations. Many encouraging and supportive policies have been introduced, driving the process forward. Notably, the development of digital technology has led to groundbreaking innovations, opening up endless creative spaces and connections for artists and cultural enterprises. However, several challenges were also highlighted, such as balancing business, profitability, and the value of cultural arts, accessing cultural resources, and building strategies to achieve the highest efficiency, as well as developing a skilled cultural workforce.
The forum runs until December 20, with four discussion sessions: Developing Cultural Startups and Expanding Networks; Developing a Strategy for Cultural and Arts Human Resources; Towards a Strategic ASEAN Cultural and Arts Network; and Planning for the Next Steps.
By Ng. Phương