Symbiotic Cosmos: Rethinking Design Education Amid Technological Innovation

On October 18, 2025, the Art and Technology Biennale China (Hangzhou) officially opened at the Yuhang Art Museum, showcasing the visionary efforts of the China Academy of Art (CAA). This biennale is not just an exhibition; it represents a pivotal moment for the future of design education, emphasizing the need for reconstruction of cultural ecology in light of rapid technological advancements. Over 160 artists from more than 20 countries and regions are exhibiting their works, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about the past, present, and future of design.

The Vision Behind the Biennale

Deeply rooted in the principles of integrating Eastern and Western cultures, the CAA’s approach to design education emphasizes innovation based on traditions. For years, the academy has been a leader in establishing modern design disciplines within China, focusing on a development strategy enriched by both global perspectives and national visions. The CAA has pioneered initiatives like "Eastern Design Studies," which aims to create a comprehensive design education framework capable of addressing societal and industrial needs. As it expands its academic horizons through the School of Design Innovation, the CAA is at the forefront of interdisciplinary design practices.

This biennale represents a confluence of Liangzhu's unique historical culture with modern technological expressions. Liangzhu’s archaeological significance, representing 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, contrasts sharply with the innovative energy of Hangzhou as a modern, thriving metropolis. This juxtaposition serves as a dynamic platform that visualizes the cultural strength of Chinese modernization, inviting artists and visitors alike to explore the deep-rooted connections between past and present.

Exploring the Four Themes

The biennale is structured around four key thematic areas:

1. Embodied Interaction Connections: In this section, visitors are encouraged to engage with the relationships between people, machines, and the environment through interactive experiences.

2. Symbiosis in Digital Education: This part focuses on fostering the coexistence of humanities and technology, promoting educational initiatives that bridge the gap between these disciplines.

3. Speculation on Ecological Reconstruction: Attendees are prompted to reflect on the interactions between technology and the environment, exploring possibilities for sustainable practices.

4. Manifest Philosophy Questions: This segment stimulates discussions about the ethical dimensions and values driving the integration of art and technology.

Through these thematic explorations, the biennale not only upholds CAA's rich academic traditions but also illustrates China’s unique approach to engaging in civilizational dialogue amidst globalization.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the CAA is committed to innovating and enhancing its design programs, offering a “CAA solution” that is both comprehensive and globally relevant. The Art and Technology Biennale serves as a crucial platform for fostering dialogue between Liangzhu and the international community, as well as bridging art and technology in meaningful ways. As artists, educators, and social innovators converge in Hangzhou, they collaborate to harmonize ancient knowledge with cutting-edge research, creating a brighter, more connected future for design education.

Curated by Duan Weibin, the Dean of the School of Design Innovation, this biennale not only showcases artistic expression but also emphasizes the vital importance of design as a tool for understanding and shaping our rapidly changing world. In doing so, it invites a global audience to engage with thought-provoking ideas that challenge the status quo of design education and the broader cultural context in which it operates.

This exploration serves as a reminder of art's powerful role in discovering the complexities of life and the human experience, inspiring future generations of designers and educators to create and innovate in an ever-evolving landscape.