In an effort to create a heightened awareness of Asian contemporary art and build a strong network of those engaged in the field, ACAW joins together curators, critics, galleries, museums and other art organizations for an in-depth examination of current art practices. Through these collaborations, ACAW produces a series of public programming that continues to be at the forefront of Asian contemporary art.

In addition to the various evening events, ACAW 2011 will center on a symposium of top speakers in the field aimed at disseminating knowledge of art communities and artists practicing inside and outside of Asia. As the independent, flagship program of ACAW 2011, the symposium will balance and address a variety of interests relating to the commercial, academic, and educational disciplines. All other events will be spread over the week, with each evening devoted to a different district: Uptown, Midtown, Downtown, Chelsea and the Boroughs.