Hiroshima Teens Create Art from Atomic Bomb Testimonies
7.8.25
In Hiroshima, Japan, teenagers from Motomachi High School have been tasked with interviewing atom bomb survivors and creating artworks based on their testimonies. The school's art students, aged 16-18, spent eight months working on the project, which aims to keep memories of the 1945 bombing relevant for younger generations. The artworks depict harrowing scenes, including a five-year-old boy clinging to his mother as they navigate the ruins, and a girl showing her father's burned body after he was injured by the blast. The students relied on their imagination and historical documents to create their pieces, which have been praised by survivors such as Masaki Hironaka for their accuracy. As the last generation to have direct contact with hibakusha (atom bomb survivors), the teenagers are grappling with the emotional weight of the project, with some describing it as "emotionally draining".
Indonesia, France Strengthen Ties through Cinema Initiatives
7.8.25
Indonesia and France are strengthening their cultural ties through joint funding schemes, international production collaborations, and networking platforms. Minister Fadli Zon aims to deepen institutional relations by promoting cross-cultural projects, supporting the Producers Lab program, and increasing cinema screens in Indonesia. The initiatives will be showcased at the Cultural Summit in Paris, where President Prabowo is scheduled to attend as a guest of honor, coinciding with Bastille Day.
Indonesia's Pacu Jalur Tradition Goes Viral Globally
7.8.25
Indonesia's Pacu Jalur tradition has gained international attention through online content, with figures like Rayyan Arkan Dikha, an 11-year-old boy from Riau, becoming a tourism ambassador. The Riau provincial government has capitalized on this trend, while Bali's Krisna-Saba Festival and Jakarta's "Jakarta in Colors" event have also highlighted the country's cultural heritage, with translations provided by Sinta A and Tegar Nurfitra, edited by Anton Santoso.
Irene Explores Palace Collaborations with Deni Mulyana
7.8.25
Indonesia's Deputy Minister Irene visited the Yogyakarta Presidential Palace with Head of the palace Deni Mulyana to explore potential collaborations. They discussed artist-in-residence programs, museum-based educational content, and cultural diplomacy through creative works rooted in local values. The visit included touring the palace museum, viewing artworks by Indonesian masters such as Affandi, Soedjojono, and Basuki Abdullah, and examining historical presidential photographs. Gedung Agung, built in 1824, has hosted over 65 heads of state including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles.
Indonesian pop-rock R&B band Juicy Luicy is set to perform at the Ruang Inspirasi Festival (RIF) in Kuala Lumpur on August 17, 2025. The festival, presented by Expoindo and Thrive, aims to combine musical performances with inspiration and storytelling behind popular works of artists. This year's event will feature a fresh concept that instills positive spirit and inspiration through music. Juicy Luicy is one of the most loved artists among Malaysia's younger generation, known for hit songs like 'Lantas' and 'Sialan'. The festival will also include personal stories from the performers, making it a more meaningful experience for attendees.
The Princess of Wales wore a soft pink outfit by Christian Dior for her first day of the Macron's state visit, featuring a single-breasted blazer and tulle skirt with netting. The outfit was inspired by Dior's 1947 collection and paired with pearl earrings that previously belonged to Princess Diana, who wore them in 1985.
Kate Middleton made a diplomatic move by wearing Dior's iconic Bar Jacket, designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, at a public event as she greeted the country's president. The outfit featured a bespoke hat from Jess Collett Milliner and a Mulberry clutch in matching blush colors, with Gianvito Rossi pumps adding a touch of elegance.
Keena Steps Back from Fifty Fifty Promotions Temporarily
7.8.25
Keena, a member of K-pop group Fifty Fifty, has suspended promotional activities due to post-traumatic stress. The singer will not perform at upcoming events but will appear in related content such as social media challenges and short-form videos. Keena had previously accused producer Ahn Sung-il of forging her signature on documents and assigning her a low share of the rights to their hit song "Cupid". Production company The Givers won a court case against Attrakt, Fifty Fifty's management agency, over the rights to "Cupid", which was released in 2023.
Khitan Empire's Silk Road Legacy Unveiled in Beijing
7.8.25
A new exhibition explores the history and cultural significance of the Silk Road during the Liao Dynasty, tracing its origins and evolution under the rule of the Khitan people. The show features four sections, including artifacts from Persia and the Arab world, diplomatic relics from Chinese dynasties, and traditional performances showcasing the region's diverse cultures.