Join the 5th edition of The Night of Ideas which will reflect on the contours of the notion of heritage.
The Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau and the Asia Society Hong Kong Center (ASHK) are pleased to announce the 5th edition of The Night of Ideas (in French, La Nuit des Idées), which will reflect on the contours of the notion of heritage. Under the title [Re]build: Beyond the Skyline, this event will take place on 21st June 2022 from 5:30pm to 10:00 p.m. at ASHK on-site and online. Through its hybrid and innovative design, it will bring to you an insightful and lively content, whether you come to the calm oasis of ASHK in the heart of Admiralty or are livestreaming at home.
As the year 2022 marks 10 years of ASHK at the Former Explosives Magazine heritage site as well as the 5th anniversary of the Night of Ideas organised by the Consulate General of France, both institutions come together to reflect on the past in order to shape the world ahead. Heritage is a critical discussion point in the debate about shaping the identity of future generations. In light of this observation, the Night of Ideas aims to answer a simple, yet essential question: What is heritage?
Leading French and Hong Kong heritage specialists, renowned scholars, institutional figures and art professionals will debate this poignant theme in engaging roundtables moderated by the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, M. Douglas So. The discussions held in ASHK’s prestigious Hong Kong Jockey Club Hall and broadcast live will explore the emotional connections between people and heritage. Some more potential answers will emerge in various forms, as the night will bring to life an exclusive neon sign exhibition from StreetsignHK, more than 80 images by photographers Hedda Morrison, Lee Fook Chee and Brian Brake taken of Hong Kong from the 1940s to 1970s in ASHK’s latest exhibition, Recovery, Resilience, Resurgence, as well as a unique VR experience of French built heritage.
French Consul General, Mr. Alexandre Giorgini, underlines the importance of the event: “Heritage is about your own history: who you are and who you want to be. Knowing the past helps you understand the present, and better shape the future.” ASHK Executive Director Ms. S. Alice Mong adds, “ASHK is excited to host an event on its site with the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong & Macau on heritage, a poignant theme for our organization as the present occupants of the Former Explosives Magazine, a site filled with history. Our heritage site allows us to not only reflect on our local past, but also use that understanding to help steer the course of our future.
With two roundtables, The Night of Ideas will invite audiences to revisit its perception of heritage, and to engage in a personal reflection of what they personally consider heritage.