From Pottery to Pixels: AU–Peking University UNESCO Project Puts Thailand at the Heart of Cultural Innovation

The UNESCO Chair on Rural Creativity and Sustainable Development International Work Station (Thailand) at Assumption University of Thailand (AU) has entered a new phase of cultural and technological innovation, with joint initiatives between Peking University and AU proceeding in full swing. From August 19–22, 2025, Professor Xiang Yong, Director of the Institute of Cultural Industries at Peking University and Professor of the School of Arts, led a series of academic seminars, cultural field studies, and regional exchanges that strengthened Sino-Thai academic cooperation.

Academic Seminars and Doctoral Training

On August 19–20, Professor Xiang delivered an open lecture on “Innovative Technologies in Cultural Management” at AU. His discussions on digital creativity, cultural heritage innovation, and the role of intelligent technology in traditional culture engaged AU doctoral students in Arts, Music, Sports, and Entertainment Management. The sessions injected fresh perspectives into AU’s doctoral curriculum and paved the way for joint cultivation of cultural technology talent.

Cultural Field Survey on Koh Kret

On August 21, Professor Xiang joined Dr. Apichart Intrasvisit, Program Director, Master of Arts, Fine Arts in leading AU doctoral students to Koh Kret’s Mon art community. Visits included the historic Chim Plee Temple, the 180-year-old Rong Sii rice mill, Sao Thong Thong Temple, the Silapa Siam Cultural Learning Center, and the pottery center at Phai Lomm Temple. These on-site engagements with local artisans highlighted the unique heritage of Mon pottery and its role in sustaining cultural identity.

This was the first major initiative of the UNESCO Chair International Work Station in Thailand, underscoring the integration of rural creativity with traditional crafts while laying the foundation for systematic international cooperation.

Eastern Region Exchanges

On August 22, Professor Xiang, accompanied by AU leaders including Vice President for Educational Innovation and Graduate Studies, Asst Prof. Dr. Kitti Phothikitti, Assistant Vice President, Dr. Gao Li, Director Thai, Confucius Institute at Assumption University, Dr. Khongrit Chatpathomrak, and Dean of the Graduate School of Human Sciences, Dr. Satha Pongsatha, visited Sriracha for cultural and academic exchanges. The delegation explored traditional fish sauce production at Pa Bat, discussed cultural resource management at the Bang Phra Administration Organization, and engaged with representatives of Assumption College Sriracha on future collaboration opportunities.