Arts and Technologies in ASEAN
- hub asean
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 9
The arts and technologies ecosystem in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is shaped by tradition, modernity, and a drive for prosperity. It has evolved significantly over the past decade, as marked by the expansion of social media platforms, immersive experiences and artificial intelligence. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated a shift to hybrid and digital-first approaches in the arts, with a focus on upskilling and new livelihood opportunities for creative professionals. Artists are pushing practices by using technologies in lighting, 3D, sensors, sound production and others.
Arts and Technologies in ASEAN: Interconnected Parts takes a closer look at 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste by investigating how these intersections are leading to new practices and trends. The British Council has commissioned Creative Friction Ltd. to learn more and map these developments. Through in-depth case studies and over 60 interviews with artists, technologists, policymakers and academics, the report reveals a highly diverse region at the forefront of exciting ideas and experimentation. The study is unique as it examines developments from an artist-led perspective rather than a purely economic lens.
This comprehensive study examines how arts and technology intersect across the 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. Commissioned by the British Council, the research reveals a dynamic ecosystem where artists are driving innovation by enhancing traditional practices and establishing new forms of artistic expression.
Key findings include:
Artist-led innovation is flourishing across the region, with practitioners pushing boundaries in fashion, new media, animation, and music while setting new standards for creativity and global engagement.
Interdisciplinarity is a defining characteristic, blurring boundaries between traditional art forms and technology. Artists are increasingly becoming researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs while serving as connectors of knowledge.
The ecosystem involves diverse stakeholders including governments, educational institutions, startups, creative spaces, artists, and civil society, with varying levels of support across countries.
Technology has transformed creative employment, with digital design processes enhancing competitiveness while AI automation is displacing some repetitive roles.
The socio-political landscape significantly shapes creative expression, with artists exploring themes of healing, climate resilience, and socio-political dialogue that redefine innovation.
Generative AI presents both opportunities and challenges, with practitioners navigating how to use it selectively to enhance rather than overshadow human creativity.
Technology has become a bridge for exploring fundamental questions about humanity, with practices around spirituality emerging as a significant theme.
Big technology companies impact accessibility, creating dependencies through restrictive licensing and high fees that can create barriers for smaller creators.
The report identifies several challenges, including the digital divide, insufficient funding, political instability, and economic uncertainty that disproportionately affect marginalized groups.
Recommendations include fostering digital literacy, expanding support for interdisciplinary activities through creative hubs and incubators, strengthening IP protection, enhancing interdisciplinarity, encouraging sustainable projects, and promoting equitable market access.
The British Council could play a pivotal role by leveraging networks, funding and expertise to encourage arts-led innovations that unlock new narratives, inclusive prosperity, and global impact.
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