In November 2024, the Department of Arts and Design successfully organized a cultural exploration tour to Hong Kong. The itinerary covered a variety of renowned art institutions and cultural landmarks, showcasing the diversity and innovation of contemporary art and design.
The doctoral students’ exploration took place from November 1 to 2, 2024, led by Professor Michael Whittle. The student team delved into Hong Kong’s prominent art hubs, starting with M+, one of Asia’s most influential institutions of contemporary visual culture, featuring world-class curatorial practices and diverse artistic expressions. The students then visited the Hong Kong Palace Museum, which integrates modern architectural approaches with traditional culture, demonstrating how the Palace Museum’s collections are revitalized in a contemporary context.
The itinerary also included visits to several professional galleries, such as Axel Vervoordt Gallery and Hauser & Wirth, known for their distinguished exhibitions. Emerging artists’ experimental works were showcased at Empty Gallery and Gallery Exit, highlighting the diversity of artistic expressions and their innovative roles in contemporary culture. The tour concluded with visits to Tai Kwun Contemporary and H-Queen’s Art Tower, where historical architecture is harmoniously combined with artistic spaces, illustrating the cultural and artistic vitality of heritage sites in urban development.
The master’s students’ exploration took place on November 5, 2024, under the guidance of Professor LI Yiqing, focusing on the integration of high-end design and contemporary art. The highlight of the itinerary was the “CHANEL TALK” design lecture hosted by Chanel, where renowned speakers shared the brand’s innovative philosophies and design processes. The lecture offered an in-depth analysis of how luxury design merges traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, providing students with valuable professional perspectives and creative inspiration.
After the lecture, the students visited M+, where they explored diverse and rich artistic installations and exhibitions, further broadening their perspectives on contemporary art. These artistic forms not only enhanced their understanding of professional knowledge but also provided inspiration and direction for their future creations.
The entire exploration tour enabled students to fully experience the vibrancy and innovation of contemporary art and design in Hong Kong. Students expressed that the tour not only expanded their professional horizons but also inspired fresh ideas for their creative work, making it a rewarding and enlightening academic journey.
