Program Highlight: Art and Design in Ancient and Contemporary China

In November 2023, Queensland College of Art and Design (QCAD) student, Cara Austin, embarked on a transformative journey through the “Art and Design in Ancient and Contemporary China” Study Tour, a custom program meticulously curated by CISaustralia. Under the guidance of esteemed faculty members Dr Paul Bai, Dr Petra Perolini, Dr Daniel Della-Bosca, Dr Rae Cooper, and CISaustralia Customised Program Coordinator Dorothy Chan, the program provided a unique opportunity for students to explore the intricate interplay between art and design in China, both past and present.

The overarching theme of the course revolved around the nexus of art and design practice, emphasizing trans-disciplinary approaches and contextual understanding within historical and contemporary frameworks. The program offered a comprehensive exploration of medium and materiality across various art and design practices through a combination of scheduled workshops, specialist lectures, and guided tours of strategically chosen sites.

One of the highlights of the program was the experiential learning gained from exploring contrasting facets of China’s cultural landscape. Students were captivated by the modern technological marvels of Shanghai’s dazzling lighting displays, which starkly contrasted with the serene ambiance of the ancient water town, Tongli. The historical significance of the Forbidden City in Beijing added another layer to the multifaceted adventure.

Reflecting on her experience, Cara expressed, “[the trip] has all been a great adventure. This is a trip that I would not have been able to do by myself due to the language barrier and lack of local know-how. This program allowed me to see more of China.” This sentiment underscores the program’s success in offering a diverse and immersive experience, that not only broadened the students’ artistic horizons but also facilitated a deeper cultural understanding through guided support.

One standout initiative that emerged from the program was a comprehensive digital portfolio created by Cara Austin. The portfolio serves as a visual chronicle of the students’ two-week journey, capturing the essence of China’s rich mosaic of culture and creativity. In her journal, Cara beautifully articulates the collective experience of QCAD’s design students, from the vibrant energy of Shanghai to the tranquil beauty of Tongli, and onto the historic pathways of Jinan and Beijing. The portfolio becomes a testament to design’s past and present unfolding before them, narrated through the places they touched and the art that inspired them.