Yung Ho Chang in Conversation at Museo Pecci, Prato

Chinese architect Yung Ho Chang, founder of Atelier Feichang Jianzhu (FCJZ) in 1993—the first non-governmental architecture firm in China—spoke with critic and curator Marco Brizzi at the Museo Pecci in Prato as part of the "Changes/Cambiamenti" series. The discussion focused on the balance between tradition and innovation in contemporary architecture, addressing rapid low-cost urban redevelopment in emerging economies, the tension between preservation and progress, and the influence of globalization on cultural exchange. Chang, inspired by Western architectural models, reinterprets them through a technological and global lens. He cited Ray Kurzweil's concept of exponential future, where innovation accelerates nonlinearly. Chang expressed concern that digital dimensions risk becoming mannerism. Drawing on influences from multimedia artist Rodney Place, he oscillates between cinematic futures—optimistic like Stanley Kubrick's or dystopian like "Blade Runner"—but maintains an optimistic approach in his work, viewing architecture as a tool for positive reinvention. The architect, also a curator, video artist, and set designer, shared his journey across disciplines, emphasizing imagination and knowledge as key drivers.