'It's good that property developers have expressed an interest in local culture and arts and that they want to participate in it by way of sponsorship. Not only in Hong Kong but worldwide, society needs businesses to invest into the arts community. I have a positive attitude towards that.
'But for this relationship to work, a mutual understanding is vital. If a private business is in it just to make quick profits, then the relationship won't last. Only when they understand and recognise the value of our work can this partnership be meaningful. But this is going to take time.
'We also need to learn how to introduce our work to them. Most artists aren't salesmen. Also, business sponsors must respect and appreciate our work, whether they're of high commercial or artistic value.
'The partnership should also be long term to make it worthwhile. We're not talking about just sponsoring one show but a long-term investment, irrespective of any financial returns. Whether local developers are committed in this manner has yet to be seen.'
