In January 2026, the Asian Patrons of the Arts of the Vatican Museums (APAVM) commemorated its 10th Anniversary with two milestone fundraising dinners in Hong Kong and Singapore.
The celebrations brought together patrons, diplomats, and APAVM friends committed to preserving one of the world’s most significant cultural institutions — the Vatican Museums. Over the past decade, APAVM has strengthened the bridge between Asia and the Vatican, supporting conservation initiatives that protect masterpieces of global artistic heritage.
The evenings marked not only a celebration of ten years of patronage, but also the launch of APAVM’s 2026 restoration commitments.
Ben Chang, Chairman of APAVM, welcomed the guests of honour, patrons, sponsors and friends during the dinners in Hong Kong and Singapore for the very special 10th Anniversary milestone of APAVM and gave a video presentation of all the achievements in its 10-year history. It was a joyous celebration of the growing collaboration between Asia and the Vatican.
Hong Kong — 16 January 2026
Monsignor José Luis Díaz-Mariblanca Sánchez, Head of the Holy See Study Mission in Hong Kong, honoured the gathering with his presence.
Monsignor Terence Hogan, SLD, Coordinator of the Office of Relations with the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums (ORPAVM), presented an overview of current conservation priorities within the Vatican Museums. His address highlighted the complexity of preserving centuries-old frescoes, tapestries, and architectural elements, and the essential role of international patronage in sustaining this work.
The Hong Kong dinner reflected the city’s longstanding commitment to heritage, philanthropy, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Singapore — 18 January 2026
His Excellency Archbishop Marek Zalewski, Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Singapore, joined the celebration alongside distinguished guests, patrons and friends.
Monsignor Marinko Antolovic, First Counsellor of the Apostolic Nunciature in Singapore, was also in attendance.
Once again, Monsignor Terence Hogan provided insights into the scientific and artistic expertise required to safeguard the Vatican Museums’ collections — works that welcome over seven million visitors annually and rank among the most visited museums in the world.
Preserving Masterpieces for Future Generations
The Vatican Museums house centuries of artistic achievement — from Renaissance fresco cycles to intricate sculptures and sacred artefacts. Conservation is a meticulous and highly specialised undertaking, requiring technical skill, sustained funding, and international cooperation.
APAVM’s role over the past ten years has been clear:
- to support restoration initiatives,
- to cultivate responsible patronage in Asia,
- and to ensure that these masterpieces remain accessible to the world.
The 10th Anniversary dinners reaffirmed a shared commitment to long-term stewardship — protecting irreplaceable works so that future generations may continue to study, appreciate, and learn from them.
With Appreciation
APAVM extends its sincere gratitude to all patrons, benefactors, sponsors, and friends who contributed to the success of these milestone events.
Together, we continue the vital work of conserving artistic heritage — honouring the past while safeguarding the future.
