Who Sustains the Work? Art, Publishing & Economies Behind Cultural Practice

Writing Join Shi Zhen, Ang Song Nian and Daniel Boetker-Smith to discuss who sustains cultural work—and what it takes to keep it going. Join Shi Zhen (La Maison de Z), Ang Song Nian (THEBOOKSHOW) and Daniel Boetker-Smith (Centre for Contemporary Photography / Asia-Pacific Photobook Archive) as they use photography and publishing as an entry point into a wider discussion of cultural infrastructure and artistic sustainability. A festival temporarily brings together artists, publishers, institutions, curators and audiences. This conversation asks what happens beyond that moment of visibility: what structures allow practices, organisations and relationships to continue once an exhibition, publication, fair or festival is over? Rather than proposing a singular model for sustainability, Who Sustains the Work? aims to bring the unresolved economic and structural questions behind cultural practice into public discussion, while preserving the working knowledge and different perspectives of those who continue to operate within these systems. About 10th SIPF 2026 Asia Meet Symposium Immerse yourself through a curated series of artist dialogues and panel sessions. Tailored to enrich your artistic journey, these sessions welcome practitioners at every stage of their creative development. Drawing on the expertise of prominent industry figures and lens-based creators, participants will acquire insights and, perhaps, a spark of inspiration required to challenge the frontiers of their practice. These sessions aim to encounter fresh perspectives and elevate creative practice through these dedicated platforms for communal exchange and professional development. Check out our Symposium Pass perks here!