Artistic and cultural exchanges strengthen national identity
Updated: 2013-04-06 07:51
By Eddy Li(HK Edition)
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The central government has repeatedly emphasized that cultural and artistic undertakings represent the national blood. The promotion of arts and culture requires constant cooperation between the mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan: we have to establish common interest, improve cultural exchanges and strengthen national identity.
In the 2013-14 Budget delivered by the Hong Kong SAR government weeks ago, it clearly states that "to foster the development of visual arts and nurture local talent in the field", the government is willing to promote the interaction and communication of stakeholders in Hong Kong and the overseas arts and culture industry. In other words, the Hong Kong SAR government and the central government share an expectation of enhancing artistic and cultural exchange between the two places.
I think this proposal is especially beneficial for Hong Kong's young generation, and I totally agree with it. Therefore, I put forward a CPPCC proposal named "To Create an Exchange Environment for Mainland and Hong Kong Young Artists". Not a very predictable subject in the proposals.
Some call young people the "bomb generation" - meaning they are somehow easily irritated or "ignited" - because they are brave enough to express their feelings and put them into practice. It is little wonder reports about how the post-90 young people put on protests and demonstrations, gives the impression that the majority are cynics.
It is sad, however, to see some cases of "de-sinicizing" in the city triggered by some ill-intentioned agitator-politicians, in which students are used to act as "pioneers on the street" who even brandish the flag of British Hong Kong to create conflicts. Although these acts do not represent mainstream popular will, we cannot let down our guard against the behavior of some young people in Hong Kong. Fifteen years after the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR, the young generation still lacks sufficient national recognition and awareness.
Passion characterizes young people. Therefore, instead of suppressing them, we should offer proper guidance so they use their passion in the right way, by enhancing their understanding of the country and the nation, and by cultivating a sense of national recognition and pride in them. In my opinion, strengthening artistic and cultural exchanges between the mainland and Hong Kong is a good channel to let the city's young people be exposed to the profound Chinese culture and encourages them to express their views through art.
Culture and arts can naturally influence people - once they get more exposed to the culture, they gradually enhance their understanding of Chinese history and develop a sense of worth. Communication and mutual inspiration make it easier for them to appreciate the responsibility of their mission to carry forward the civilization. And henceforth, their emotional attachment to the nation is enriched day by day.
Actually, Hong Kong has a profound pop culture. It was the art creation center in Asia during the 1960s and 70s, and is now in possession of the most advanced level of creativity and techniques. Exchanges are the platform for communication, and also the bridge for the city's outstanding artworks to enter the mainland market, which simultaneously pushes forward the development of the cultural industry and the tapping of the international cultural market.
Nevertheless, cultural and artistic exchanges have seemed generally one-way in the past between the two places. Generally speaking, there are many mainland arts exhibitions in Hong Kong, but the other way round is rare. Young artists in the city need exposure. If there are more opportunities provided in the mainland for Hong Kong's artists and exchanges between the young, I believe it's beneficial for both sides.
The mainland culture authorities can strengthen their cooperation with the HKSAR through large-scale culture and arts exchanges and exhibitions, and providing more exhibition space and easier application procedures. By so doing, it enhances understanding and communication between the young elites on both sides while reinforcing national cohesion. On the other hand, it encourages a common effort towards developing an international market for Chinese arts and culture, thereby expanding the influence of the Chinese civilization.
The author is vice-president of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong.
(HK Edition 04/06/2013 page1)