Photo: Nanfang Plus
The 2026 Hengqin-Macao International Digital Art Expo kicked off on April 27 at the Hengqin Culture & Art Complex, bringing together global artists, tech firms, and industry leaders to explore how emerging technologies are reshaping creative expression.
The event will run until May 10, spanning China's May Day holiday period.
The exhibition features four themed sections, including one dedicated to interactive digital art using AI and VR, allowing visitors to engage with responsive works in real-time. Another section focuses on the digital revival of cultural heritage, using technologies like 3D modeling and augmented reality (AR) to re-imagine historical art, including Dunhuang murals and Daoist paintings. A separate area targets younger audiences, featuring digital entertainment such as AI-generated music and video, gaming, and extended reality (XR) experiences.
Photo: Nanfang Plus
Compared with the inaugural edition, this year's expo features stronger participation from major tech firms including Lenovo, BOE × OPPO, and ARIDGE. It highlights technologies such as generative AI, AI-enabled 3D printing, naked-eye 3D, and immersive interaction, illustrating a full industry chain spanning hardware, software, content creation, and distribution.
Beyond the exhibition halls, a parallel forum running from April 27 to 30 brings together academics, executives, and artists to discuss topics ranging from content creation, commercialization to education and cultural preservation. More than 30 sessions are scheduled.
Photo: Nanfang Plus
The event will also host competitions and live showcases, including a digital art contest final and an AI-powered filmmaking challenge linking Hengqin with Venice, aimed at discovering emerging creative talent.
Organizers say the expo is intended not only as a public exhibition but as a platform for industry collaboration, as China continues to invest in the integration of technology and cultural production.
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing
