As both a geographical and cultural concept, the East possesses distinctive natural and human landscapes. The theme of this conference, “The Free-Spirited East,” is not intended to highlight an exceptionally unique or independent East. Rather, it seeks to differentiate this East from two familiar versions: the “East” constructed through a Western gaze, and the “East” that, though originating in the East, has been shaped to satisfy Western expectations and tastes. Neither of these representations truly captures the East’s external reality, nor do they convey the profound cultural meanings and aesthetic aspirations embedded within Eastern traditions. 

The East has never been merely an object of observation. It is a living, dynamic cultural realm — one that requires no self-justification and pulses with intrinsic vitality. We speak of it as a “domain” rather than a fixed geographical entity to emphasize its complex, internally vibrant, and richly diverse cultural system. From an insider’s perspective, the Free-Spirited East both reaffirms the contemporary relevance and unique value of traditional Eastern design thinking and opens fresh intellectual pathways for design in the age of rapid technological transformation. At its core, the theme expresses the East’s quiet confidence and self-possession: it refuses definitions imposed from outside, it no longer feels compelled to prove itself to the world, yet it is neither insular nor artificially accommodating. Instead, it seeks to rediscover, reactivate, and reimagine the deepest wisdom and beauty rooted in its own cultural soil. 

Through MSPL, we aim to create a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary platform for dialogue, jointly exploring design approaches grounded in the rich diversity of Eastern cultural contexts, as well as the philosophical depth and contemporary significance of Eastern design thought. We especially support and celebrate designers who draw deeply from the profound artistry and craftsmanship traditions of the East — creators who respond thoughtfully to the uncertainties, complexities, and possibilities of our time. 

（Group photo of all experts participating in this annual conference）

（Prof. He Hong explaining the inner spirit of Chinese traditional porcelain art）

（Prof. Zhu Liang and Prof. Liu Yishi ）

（Prof. Wang Min and Prof. Liu Su）

（Prof. Liu Yishi）

（Prof. Zhu Weiming）

（Prof. Zhang Lei）

(Dr. Gao Xi)

(Prof. Lan Fang)

（Prof. Cao Ruping）

（Prof. An Cong）

（Prof. Zhang Chunyan）

（Prof. Li Qiong）

（Prof. Liu Fan）

（Prof. Hua Yixiong）

（Mr. Zhao Yuyao）