Bulletin Spring‧Summer 2001

A r t and c u l t u r e a r e t he 'superstructure' of society, a reflection of the taste and lifestyle of those who live in it. Hong Kong people come from all over the world, largely from the mainland. They have different backgrounds and have lived under the influence of Western culture. Hence Hong Kong has always been very open to different forms of artistic expression and cultural influences, whether traditional or contemporary, Eastern or Western. There is also great tolerance of the different schools, and v i r tua l l y no political pressure. People can appreciate, criticize, and express themselves freely. This environment gives rise to an intercultural style that is uniquely Hong Kong. All literature, drama, music, and art that spring forth from this city carry within them this intercultural dialogue. Yet, in the process of social development, art and culture have not been given as much attention as they deserve. With the aim of preserving valuable cultural assets, members of the University have embarked on various research projects. They spend a lot of time collecting and processing data and setting up databases, to pave the way for more in-depth studies and to preserve local history and culture. They have been actively creating, giving voice to our times and our generation. They have also been promoting literature and the arts, striving to expand the cultural space both on and off the campus. The l as t i ssue of t he Bulletin introduced to the readers the University's research into the history, social and political development, mass media, religion, and architecture of Hong Kong. In this issue, we will focus on its hard work and achievements in the field of literature, drama, music, and art.