On March 9, a seminar on fundamental issues in Chinese design art studies was held at Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University. Qin Chuan, Party Secretary of the academy, attended the event, which was chaired by Hang Jian, Chair Professor in Humanities at Tsinghua University. Sixteen experts from the fields of design and art studies across the country shared their perspectives on how to conduct research on fundamental issues in Chinese design art studies.

In his welcome address, Qin Chuan stated that, the academy is actively reflecting on its teaching and research objectives and specific implementation methods, and exploring new consensus in art and design. To contribute to the theoretical construction of Chinese design art studies, focus on contemporary issues, and explore academic frontiers, the academy's leadership decided to establish the Chinese Design Studies Institute at Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University. During the meeting, Qin Chuan announced the decision and appointed Professor Hang Jian as the director.

Qin Chuan

Hang Jian emphasized that the Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University has the responsibility and obligation to collaborate with peers nationwide to undertake the task of constructing an autonomous knowledge system for design art studies with Chinese characteristics. He noted that with the advancement of science and technology, "design art" has become a crucial field for promoting social development and progress. However, design art studies have yet to establish a complete theoretical framework; the disciplinary foundation is weak, and the issues are complex and varied, increasingly underscoring the importance and urgency of building an autonomous knowledge system. Establishing China's own design discipline, academic system, and discourse is both a trend and a responsibility. Within China's unique socio-cultural context and practical experiences, the academic community must identify real problems and carve out its own path.

Hang Jian

The experts engaged in lively discussions around the seminar’s theme, exploring the rationale and necessity of establishing an autonomous knowledge system for Chinese design art studies. They offered insights on defining concepts, addressing research challenges, and identifying core issues to guide future exploration. In closing, Professor Hang Jian outlined initial plans for the Institute’s work and discussed with attendees collaborative strategies to advance the long-term development of Chinese design studies and leverage academia for the public good.