Art is everywhere around us. Recognising the importance of art and the crucial role it plays in our lives, the Macao government has started an initiative to promote art and culture in its integrated resorts. As an early step in this initiative, Macao International Culture and Sports Industries Association (MICSIA), supported by G2E Asia, and MM Cultural Development Group Limited together held the first edition of ArtBiz Asia Forum at Venetian Macau on 21 and 22 May.
The two-day long conference provided a platform for integrated resorts decision-makers and regional art experts to come together to discuss the vast potential of art in developing these integrated resorts and also the wider impact on various travel destinations in Asia.
The panel discussions not only covered art appreciation but also art business, focusing on art tourism, art investment, commercial space with art elements, creative development of various platforms of art industry, etc.
Both days of ArtBiz Asia Forum saw hundreds of esteemed guests share their expert opinions on art and support this initiative by the local government. Discussing the importance of such a venture, Helena Fernandes, director of the Macao Government Tourist Office (MGTO), says: ““In the future development of Macao, both in terms of tourism suitability and long-term development, culture and art will be the important elements that drive our growth. What we’re trying to create is a new brand of cultural tourism using different art forms [for tourists] to come to Macao and appreciate it in a different way.”
Clearly happy with the turnout and the panel discussions, Patricia Cheong, President of MICSIA, says: “With the extensive and exciting discussion between the speakers and the audience, I would say it [ArtBiz] has reached our goal. At the same time, I can also see the unlimited potential for the development of the forum. I hope that next year the forum will reach a more extensive and profound dimension.”