Foreword
Asian fine arts with uniquely geographical features embody the characteristics of the oriental cultural in the region in aspects of design, format, style, language of expression and aesthetic conception. Supported by the Asian culture and economy, the foundation of an Asian art museum has made significant contributions to the development of Asian fine arts in collection, exhibition and research, it has also promoted the development of contemporary Asian fine arts. To initiate a new era of Asian art, while the Peoples Republic of China's Ministry of Culture sponsored the 8th Asia Arts Festival, the National Art Museum of China organized the Asian Art Museum Directors' Forum: ASEAN + 3 Theme Meeting. This forum begins the widespread cooperation of Asian art museums. It s believed that, by great efforts of the participative countries art museums, the epochal encounters will become the driving force to create a new situation at Asian art museums.
This forum will unify the art museums of Asian countries, especially of China, Japan, Korea and ASEAN, to enquire commonly into the questions of contemporary Asian art, to research for the common and specific problems in relation to collections, exhibits, and research that existing throughout Asian art museums. Meanwhile, we hope to ensure Asian art will be a strong presence, by its museums integration, to make contribution to art development of contemporary Asia and the world.
Southeast Asia is one of the world's most culturally diverse regions, where the cultures of numerous countries and ethnic groups interact with one another,and their combined history is one of the world s longest. The differences that existing between cultures tend to be the reason for and topic of conversation, the integration of local cultures has caused regional cultures to thrive. As it is believed to be ASEAN's aim, we uphold equality and cooperation as our spirit, and work diligently to promote this region's economic flourishing, society s progress, and cultural growth. Furthermore, we try to remain justice, maintain order, and adhere to the United Nations Charter. We promote peace and stability in this region, as well as international and other regional organizations closely working together for mutually beneficial results. The foundation of Asian art museums cooperation embodies both equality and collaboration, promoting the growth and great efforts of this era's Asian art.
I wish this Asian Art Museum Directors' Forum great success.
Fan Di' an
Director, National Art Museum of China |