Summit to help HK grow arts sector into an economic pillar

Wallis Wang

Senior executives of top museums from around the world will attend the first Hong Kong International Cultural Summit during Art March to forge cooperation with the West Kowloon Cultural District, says Henry Tang.

Tang is confident the arts and culture sector can become an economic pillar.

The concept of the summit - a flagship event of Art March to be held from March 25 to 26 at Xiqu Centre, M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum - originated from Tang's proposal during the two sessions last year.

The summit will see the West Kowloon district sign cooperation deals with more than 20 top museums, including the Tate Modern art gallery in London and Musee National Picasso in Paris.

The collaboration will be carried out in different forms such as joint exhibitions, performing arts festivals and talent exchanges.

"This is the first time we are hosting the summit and we have to tell museums around the world our goals and why we're doing it," Tang said.

He said public funds are subsidizing the summit.

Tang said he met director of Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office Xia Baolong in January, who said the West Kowloon district can lead Hong Kong's cultural development.

"I think we have a great responsibility and are also able to develop as an art and cultural exchange center between China and overseas," he said.

Tang also said the arts and culture sector in Hong Kong can be developed into a economic pillar.

"We have surpassed London in art auctions and are still behind New York," he said.

"I believe we lagged because of the pandemic, but I'm confident we can catch up with New York."

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com