Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Art Business

First Advisor

Noah Kupferman

Second Advisor

Maria Sancho-Arroyo

Abstract

This thesis, titled M+, Beyond a Museum? The Making of a New Cultural Paradigm in Hong Kong, is a critical inquiry into whether M+ is a traditional museum or an institution that redefines Hong Kong’s cultural landscape. The study examines the operational and financial challenges encountered by the Museum in the backdrop of its distinguished architecture, meticulous programming, and advanced digital technology. By tracing the Museum’s development through its core exhibitions and international collaborations, this thesis demonstrates how M+ has evolved into a key art institution within the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD), and elevated its positioning in the cultural scenes of Hong Kong and other parts of the world.  Although the “Sigg controversy” and WKCD’s financial predicament together exposed inherent weaknesses in the system, the Museum’s subsequent program innovations and ambitious global networking unveil its versatility to combat ongoing risks and challenges. This thesis reveals that M+ functions as more than just a visual culture museum; it is a strategic institution that adapts to ever-changing political and economic conditions. Overall, M+ represents more than a museum project, marking a significant milestone in shaping a new cultural paradigm in Hong Kong.

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