A Manifesto Art Charity Gala: A Night of Emerging Artistic Vision

2025-05-30 Editor

Hong Kong, May 30, 2025 – Younes Bensebaa, International Arts News — The AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong provided a stunning backdrop for the A Manifesto Art Charity Gala, where creativity and philanthropy converged. Organized by Art Hong Kong Expo, the Shenzhen Digital Creative Industry Association, and the Asian Academy of Arts—led by Dean Tingting Fang—this event made a bold statement in Asia’s emerging contemporary art scene. It combined a charity auction with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, transformation, and art’s positive social impact.

Opening ceremony of the A Manifesto Art Charity Gala, with distinguished guests (left to right): President of the World Janggu Education Association and Korean National Intangible Cultural Heritage Daegum Sanjo Instructor Cho Chul-hyun; Chairman of Art Hong Kong Expo Tianfu Liang; Japanese animation producer and “Astro Boy” pioneer Kurokawa Keijirō; Dean of the Asian Academy of Arts and founder of A Manifesto Tingting Fang; Academician of the United Nations Academy of Sciences and cloud computing & blockchain expert Rong Chunming; Olympic Champion and Chinese Women’s Judo Team athlete Yang Xiuli; Executive Chairman of the Shenzhen Digital Creative Industry Association Pi Qubing.

Redefining Artistic Boundaries

The story of A Manifesto is one of bold vision and artistic revolution. Originally launched in 2023 at the prestigious Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, it was conceived by Dean Tingting Fang as a transformative initiative in the art world. Based on the principles of anti-centrism, anti-perfection, and anti-labeling, A Manifesto now inspires artists from underrepresented communities, aiming to challenge entrenched norms and expand the global reach of Asian artists, mixed-media creators, and marginalized voices.

The gala marked a significant evolution for the initiative—from exhibitions to a high-profile charity auction. Funds raised will support the launch of the Asian Emerging Artists List, a program designed to spotlight young artists through global touring exhibitions, collaborations with international auction houses, and blockchain-based online art archives.

The Visionary Force Behind the Movement

Tingting Fang’s leadership has been pivotal in the success of A Manifesto, redefining the role of Asian artists in today’s society. As Dean of the Asian Academy of Arts, she has consistently championed art as a vehicle for social change. Her international efforts—spanning London, Paris, Hong Kong, and New York—have positioned her as a pioneer in merging Asian and global art narratives.

Tingting Fang delivers a toast alongside fellow distinguished guests during the evening celebration.

In her speech, Fang stated, “Art comes to life in interaction with others. Tonight, we celebrate not only the remarkable artworks but also the connections they inspire.” Under her guidance, A Manifesto has grown from a promising exhibition into a full-fledged movement. Milestones include the 2024 exhibition Resounded: Asian Innovators, and the 2025 A Manifesto II at the Louvre, attended by over five thousand guests.

Art Meets Charity

The evening was thoughtfully curated to blend artistic excellence with meaningful purpose. Highlights included the Honoring Change-makers segment, which celebrated individuals and institutions making profound contributions to Asia’s art ecosystem. Among the honorees were recipients of the Asian Emerging Art Prize, a platform credited with launching the careers of numerous young Asian artists.

Dean Tingting Fang presents certificates to emerging artists as part of the awards segment.

The Charity Auction, led by esteemed auctioneer Alan Ling Feng, underscored the gala’s international resonance. Seventeen exceptional works—ranging from Xu Bokai’s digitally-infused Seven Elements to Zhao Guihu’s evocative In Another World—attracted impressive bids. All proceeds are dedicated to nurturing emerging artistic talent.

Beyond fundraising, the event fostered collaboration. Collectors, designers, and scholars from across the globe converged, building partnerships poised to influence the future of art.

Zhao Guihu’s In Another World on display during the charity auction.

A Manifesto’s Global Ambitions

One of the evening’s most exciting announcements came from Tingting Fang: A Manifesto will expand its reach to London, New York, and Singapore. This global expansion aims to elevate Asia’s role in contemporary art while encouraging cross-cultural dialogue. “Tonight is not an end, but a beginning,” Fang proclaimed. “Together, we will write the next chapter of this manifesto.”

Tingting Fang delivers a stirring opening speech on the success and vision of A Manifesto.

A Legacy of Impact

More than a fundraising gala, the A Manifesto Art Charity Gala celebrated art’s power to inspire, challenge, and unite. Under Tingting Fang’s visionary leadership, the event attracted distinguished guests from leading institutions, all bearing witness to art’s potential as a force for social good. As the evening concluded, one message rang clear: A Manifesto is not just an event—it is a growing movement destined to leave a lasting legacy.