The public art program for the new Shanghai Library East designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects was officially unveiled to the public, featuring works by ten artists from China and abroad. The program curated by art collaborator UAP seeks to celebrate the art of literature and promote the popularisation of art within an engaging and inspiring architectural space.
The project’s central curatorial theme ‘Mediums: The Development of Writing’ was inspired by the existing Shanghai Library’s reputation as an iconic city landmark, famous for its use of digital media to conserve ancient archives and many collections, including genealogical records. Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects participated in UAP‘s curation of the artworks that amalgamate the contemporary and avant-garde while deeply rooted in tradition.
Artists whose works are showcased within the program of public artworks include Emily Floyd, Gu Wenda, Simon Ma, Mia Liu, Ni Youyu, Shen Fan, Plummer & Smith, Xu Bing, Yang Zhenzhong and Zheng Chongbin.
The 115,000 m² Shanghai Library East is located in Pudong District – the area of the city known for its iconic skyline and sits immediately next to Century Park – the largest park in the city spread over 140 hectares. Shanghai Library East is the largest library in China with a single building. After opening, it can receive 4 million visitors and provide over 200 lectures and thousands of academic activities every year.
Explore a selection of the artwork below.
