Chengdu, China – In a remarkable gathering of minds, the City Ideas – World Conference on Cultural Cities, a prominent global culture and creativity forum, successfully convened in Chengdu. In collaboration with the World Cities Culture Forum, Chengdu Media Group, and Chengdu Cultural Industry Development Promotion Center, the conference illustrated Chengdu’s commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural exchange.
Adopting an innovative “offline + online” format, the main venue in Chengdu was complemented by offline sub-venues in Shanghai and London, alongside more than ten online sub-venues worldwide. This hybrid approach ensured an inclusive platform for dialogue and collaboration.
Focusing on the theme of “Cities with Ideas”, the conference brought together member cities of the World Cities Culture Forum and global urban cultural and creative elites, aiming to promote the interaction of urban cultural and creative industries, cross-border cooperation of outstanding enterprises, and jointly strengthen international cooperation and innovation in the creative economy. Emphasising the crucial role of urban cultural and creative industries in shaping the future, esteemed speakers from various fields shared their insights, highlighting the intersection of culture, technology, and urban development.
In the afternoon, specialists and experts from related fields gathered online and offline to attend the event to witness the vigorous development of the city’s cultural and creative industry and express their insights in the cultural field, including John Howkins, Chair of City Ideas, along with Justin Simons, chair of the World Cities Culture Forum and Deputy Mayor of London, Ludi, director of the Audiovisual Communication Research Center at Peking University, Luo Jun, Executive Chairman of the China Computer Industry Association Metaverse Industry Special Committee, etc.
In London, Justine Simons released the ground-breaking report – “World Cities Culture Report”, sharing case studies of major cultural cities. Paul Owens, co-founder and director of BOP, released his report. Ferdinand Klauser, global partner of KISKA and manager of China, delivered a keynote speech on the theme of Designing Desire.
The roster of speakers was a testament to the conference’s high caliber. Renowned experts and specialists from across the globe contributed their knowledge and perspectives, fostering a rich environment for learning and discussion. The topics covered gave attendees a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing cultural cities today.
“The City Ideas – World Conference on Cultural Cities has set a new benchmark for global cultural forums,” said John Howkins, the chair of City Ideas. “We aimed to bring together the best minds in the field, and we are proud to say that we achieved that. The insights and ideas shared here will undoubtedly influence cities’ cultural and creative landscapes worldwide.”
