The AUA-CU Arts & Culture Workshop 2026, held from March 18 to 24, concluded successfully at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. Under the theme “The Art of Aging: Creative Expression and Cultural Engagement in Later Life,” the week-long program brought together youth from across the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA) member universities to bridge generational gaps through the universal language of art. By the time the workshop wrapped up, participants had not only explored the complexities of aging but also co-created a vivid tapestry of cultural narratives with the elderly community.
As the global population ages, improving the quality of life for seniors and fostering intergenerational harmony have become critical societal focal points. This workshop was designed to dismantle age barriers through the universal language of art. By integrating expert lectures, immersive workshops, and community engagement, the organizers sought to guide students in understanding the spiritual and emotional needs of the elderly while exploring the pivotal role of cultural participation in promoting “active aging”.
Academic and Artistic Exploration: Deep Diving into Aging
The workshop began with a rigorous academic exploration where participants engaged with both theory and sensory experience. Dr. Montakarn Chimmamee from Chulalongkorn University provided a comprehensive analysis of aging trends and human capital development opportunities in Southeast Asia. Complementing this, Siriwan Arunthippaitoon, a Senior Specialist from the Department of Older Persons Affairs, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, shared deep insights into social policy and the inherent wisdom of the elderly. Along with theoretical foundation, the Chulalongkorn University Student Wellness Division led series of arts intervention workshops. Through painting, music, dance, and storytelling, students experienced firsthand how creative expression can serve as a powerful tool to enhance the physical and mental well-being of older adults while revitalizing their zest for life. Dong Tianyi, a program participant, reflected, “The most impactful moments were the hands-on workshops where we engaged directly with the elderly through art and storytelling. It taught me that ‘The Art of Aging’ isn’t just about healthcare or policy—it’s about creative expression and building a bridge of empathy between generations. Collaborating with local Thai seniors on art projects truly brought our different worlds together.”
Community Engagement: Building Real-World Connections
To transform theory into authentic emotional connection, participants stepped beyond the campus to conduct field research and interact with local communities in Bangkok. Guided by Mr. Likhit Limrotrauai, Director of the Yannawa Elderly School, students participated in interactive games designed to facilitate intergenerational dialogue. Furthermore, by visiting cultural landmarks such as Wat Thongbon, Wat Phomankunaram, and the unique Boat Wat Yannawa, students not only appreciated Thailand’s rich heritage but also observed how cultural environments provide vital social support for the elderly in real-life settings. One of the student participants, Xiong Yixin, said, “Participating in the AUA–CU Workshop has been a truly rewarding experience. We explored how Thailand addresses the challenges of an aging society, visited a local elderly school, communicated with community members, and completed our group project, contributing diverse ideas and culturally informed approaches to aging issues.”
Creative Synthesis: Collaborative Multi-Perspective Outcomes
The final phase of the workshop focused on collaboration and creative output. Participants worked in small groups to translate their reflections into art projects that captured the emotional bonds and stories shared between generations. During the final presentations, students showcased their creative results while articulating new pathways for cultural engagement and intergenerational communication techniques. Li Yinghao from Tsinghua University shared, “The workshop offered me new insights into the role of arts in elderly care, particularly in the Thai context. Through field visits and presentations, I gained a deeper understanding of how artistic practices can serve as a form of therapy, enhancing emotional well-being and social engagement among older adults. This experience has inspired me to think more critically about the intersection of culture, well-being, and social development.”
This AUA Arts & Culture Workshop successfully transitioned “aging” from an abstract statistical concept into a series of vivid, creative life narratives. Through this experience, students from AUA member universities gained effective communication skills and a deepened sense of social responsibility toward the elderly. This interdisciplinary and cross-cultural program provides a valuable blueprint for addressing demographic challenges in Asia, enhancing a spirit of humanistic care into the pursuit of a sustainable and inclusive society.
Writer: WANG Sa
