Stories

Philip Tinari speaks about the potential of art to transform lives, even if just for one viewer among thousands. He reflects on how creators can hold space for “a certain kind of magic,” and how his own experience as an American who built a career in China — through language, collaboration, and cultural trust — feels increasingly precious in a time of growing divide. He speaks with James Chau, President of the China-United States Exchange Foundation.

In this interview with CUSEF President James Chau, UCCA Director Philip Tinari explains how contemporary art can cut through political division by offering a shared space for expression and connection. He discusses how Chinese audiences, especially younger generations, are embracing art with global ambition, and how American artists find resonance in Beijing through innovation, boldness, and curiosity.

Philip Tinari, Director of UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, reflects on art as a rare space for exchange at a time of growing U.S.-China mistrust. In conversation with CUSEF President James Chau, he shares how contemporary art has evolved in China, why American artists like Andy Warhol resonate with Chinese audiences, and how his own cross-cultural life has become a “gift” shaped by years of immersion and shared creativity.

So it’s the year of the snake, which really brings up the question, how are snakes doing in China? “Culturally, snakes are more venerated in China than in the United States,” says Chinese snake expert and enthusiast Michael Ring.

Shen Xin, a prominent Chinese public diplomacy official, reflects on the changing role of culture in U.S.-China relations in a conversation with CUSEF President James Chau. Shen argues that while culture may not directly resolve geopolitical issues, it creates space for meaningful dialogue, particularly among young people.

James Chau — CUSEF President — and Shen Xin — Vice President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries — discuss how visual arts, music, and theater serve as a universal language that fosters global understanding. They stress that people to people exchange drive collaboration, innovation, and cultural enrichment.

Raz Gal-Or (高佑思), the creator behind YChina, reflects on his journey from teen expat to cultural connector at the the 2025 Harvard China Forum, Looking ahead, he believes the future of U.S.-China relations rests with the next generation of creators and innovators. He also encourages young Chinese and Americans alike to engage with each other’s countries — not just as visitors, but as active participants in culture, industry, and dialogue. “The more we can have this communication, the better the future will be,” he says.

Interview with Xu Bing | U.S.-China Art Dialogue

Jesse’s Teahouse: Sharing Chinese Tea Culture | Kyle Obermann (Part 2)

Jesse’s Teahouse: Sharing Chinese Tea Culture | Kyle Obermann