As China prepares for the next olympics -- it is remarkable to see how this country has changed over the last few years. BBC's Culture Show had a special report on China, and the growth of creative industries in this country. The design industry seems to be booming in China -- with a range of emerging design houses -- such as Grifted, Design Republic, and Shirtflag -- all representatives of contemporary China reinterpreting identity and individuality. According to the FooZoo Design Blog, "...
now more than ever, China is redefining its place in the world. Vast, technologically-advanced cities are popping up next to some of the most rural places in the world; design, art, music, and culture are evolving quicker than ever before. For the first time in centuries, China is on center stage with a new image, a new feel, and a wealth of innovation." Some of these musicians -- such as "B6" -- represent the emergence of the new electronic music scene in China. According to a report on US National Public Radio, "...B6 is that rare creature in China, an independent musician who is making a living from his work. Until recently, the Chinese government limited the number of CDs that could be sold — and music piracy is rampant. But the Internet and the burgeoning capitalist economy have opened up other options for independent musicians like B6." For me, London in the UK represents one of the most culturally (and design) rich cities in the world. A recent talk at the Department of Trade and Industry's Technology Strategy Board by Sir Terrence Conran highlighted the importance of design in facilitaing innovation, and sustaining a creative environment (leading to new ideas and technology innovation). Subsequently, the UK TSB launched a special programme in Creative Industries -- recognizing the importance of this area within UK economy. Similarly, in China perhaps this growth in creative industries, which in the past were suppressed by Chinese government, spells a new era for Chinese innovation and creativity? Perhaps, the recent emphasis on the negative sides of China (human rights etc etc.) need to be balanced with the rapid growth of this nation, not just as a country with 1.3B people and vast swathes of concrete, but also as a nation that is emerging as the culture capital of the future. Where artists combine thousands of years of Chinese culture with a range of different Western and Asian influences.
image from http://www.daylife.com/ -- originally from Getty Images
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