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.