cities

The Art Beats Festival, supported by the Global Advancement Fund (GAF) of Lancaster University, stands as a testament to the international nature of collaboration in the world of arts and academia. Convened and curated by Prof. Mayco A. Santaella from Sunway University and Dr. Maryam Ghorbankarimi from Lancaster University, this festival represents a fusion of talents and ideas from two prestigious institutions.

The positive impact of this collaboration is evident in its multifaceted contributions to urban communities. Sunway University’s role as the first host of the festival in August 2023, both online and on-site, brought the arts closer to local communities, fostering cultural appreciation and creativity. Lancaster University’s upcoming hosting responsibilities in 2024 further extend this impact, strengthening ties between the institutions and enriching the cultural landscape.

With seventeen years of partnership between Sunway University and Lancaster University, this project not only celebrated their enduring relationship but also solidified the bond between Lancaster Institute for Contemporary Arts (LICA) and Sunway University’s School of Arts. This collaboration facilitated student mobility, enabling individuals from various institutions to engage in creative workshops and masterclasses led by industry experts.

The festival showcased works from around the world, highlighting the significance of the arts in shaping the future of cities. The themes of Planetary Health, Crossing Borders, and Hidden Voices explored contemporary issues through the lens of art, emphasizing the power of creative expression in addressing global challenges. Exhibitions such as “Forsaken” and “50 years – 50 images” provided unique perspectives on urban life and cultural diversity.

The festival also featured live performances, including singer-songwriter Alena Murang and the band Nadir, demonstrating how the arts can bridge cultural divides and preserve endangered languages and music traditions as well as how they can be developed for staged performances to ensure cultural sustainability. The digital format of the festival facilitated international participation, fostering connections among artists, academics, and enthusiasts worldwide.

Cultural sustainability has emerged as a paramount concern for cities in the contemporary world, and the Art Beats Festival exemplifies its importance. In an era of rapid urbanization and globalization, cities must preserve and celebrate their unique cultural identities to remain vibrant and resilient. This festival not only showcased diverse artistic expressions from around the globe but also fostered local talent, ensuring that cultural traditions and creative heritage continue to thrive within urban communities. By nurturing cultural sustainability, cities can harness the power of art and creativity to foster inclusivity, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging among their residents, ultimately paving the way for more vibrant, resilient, and culturally rich urban environments.

The three themes of the 2023 Art Beats Festival – Planetary Health, Crossing Borders, and Hidden Voices – resonate deeply in today’s world. Planetary Health underscores the critical need to address environmental and ecological challenges within urban spaces, emphasizing the interconnectedness between urban life and the well-being of the planet. Crossing Borders speaks to the importance of transcending geographical, cultural, and social boundaries, fostering a global perspective that celebrates diversity and encourages dialogue. Hidden Voices highlights the significance of amplifying marginalized and underrepresented voices, shedding light on untold stories and perspectives that often go unheard in the bustling urban landscape. These themes, explored through various artistic mediums, not only reflect the complex and pressing issues of our time but also inspire collective action, empathy, and a renewed commitment to a more sustainable and inclusive urban future.

The Art Beats Festival played a pivotal role in supporting collaborative research initiatives. It served as a platform for artists and academics to explore artistic research collaboration, share their findings, and develop innovative projects. By bringing together diverse perspectives, festivals stimulate interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaborations, bridging the gap between academic research and practical applications. Art Beats focused on creating a positive impact on urban communities, considering its significance for the future of cities, and underscoring the vital role of the arts in shaping our world contributing to the betterment of society.

Thank you to Assoc. Prof. Dr Mayco Axel Santaella from Sunway University for providing this piece.