Published and Edited by: Cheng Yu

WUST News — On November 29, Professor Guan Jiaqing, Dean of the School of Art and Design at Wuhan University of Science and Technology (WUST), was invited to participate in the “Silk Road Symbiosis, Mutual Learning Among Civilizations: Sino-Thai Art Exchange Exhibition”commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand. The event was jointly organized by Burapha University and the Tangxunhu Museum of Art. Professor Guan was accompanied by faculty members Zhao Yin, Chen Guo, and Zuo Zhuo.

At the accompanying academic symposium, Guan Jiaqing delivered a keynote address titled From Cultural Excavation to Emotional Resonance: Innovative Practices and Explorations in the Transformation of Museum and Regional Culture. His presentation highlighted the core value of museums as cultural carriers, supported by comprehensive case studies on collection activation, intangible cultural heritage preservation, and IP development. Integrating innovative ideas with both theoretical depth and practical application, the report systematically outlined pathways for transforming regional cultural resources into sources of public engagement and emotional connection.

The report's substantial content and distinctive perspective sparked lively discussions among attending experts and scholars. They highly praised Guan's forward-thinking academic insights and pragmatic practical experience, considering it a valuable contribution to the activation of cultural heritage and civilizational exchange between the two countries.

Following the seminar, Dean Sakesan Tony Apiromy of the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at Burapha University presented Professor Guan with the Outstanding Contribution Award in recognition of his academic leadership and impact.

The event also featured speeches and presentations by Professor Ye Jianxin from Communication University of China, Professor Chen Ying from Wuhan University, Dean Sakesan Tony Apiromy, Vice Dean Bunchoo Bunlikhitsiri, Senior Professors Paradee and Puwasa from Burapha University, and former Dean Pornchai from the Faculty of Arts at Chiang Mai University.

Over 100 scholars from more than 30 universities participated in this exchange exhibition and academic forum. Chinese and Thai artists used their works as a bridge to interpret the spirit of the Silk Road and convey the warmth of cultural exchange, reinforcing the friendship between the two countries and paving new paths for future collaboration. (School of Art and Design)