Gazing into the Patio: The Juxtaposition of Diversity and Inclusiveness

Organized by Shanghai Jing Resettlement Industry(group)Co.,Ltd. and curated by Made in House, the exhibition "Gazing into the Patio: The Juxtaposition of Diversity and Inclusiveness" took place in Shanghai's largest and most diverse Shikumen complex – Zhangyuan. Shikumen is a traditional Shanghainese architectural style combining Western and Chinese elements, which is a testimony of Shanghai's history. Inspired by the Haipai culture inherited in Shikumen, the exhibition presented an array of functional art and collectible designs by eight Chinese and international contemporary artists.

Explore | Contemporary Art

Gazing into the Patio: The Juxtaposition of Diversity and Inclusiveness

The "Patio" exhibition echoes Shanghai's increasingly international perspective and diverse environment. The exhibit is a visual representation of the cultural fusion that characterizes Shikumen. Eight artists worked on various concepts to reinterpret the culture of Haipai, starting from Jiangnan's traditional Wu Yue culture and combining it with Western architectural influences. Artists from home and abroad enrich Shikumen's image and become more vibrant.

Venue | Zhang Yuan

Located in the heart of Shanghai, Zhang Yuan is an unique international cultural and commercial landmark. The area provides a valuable snapshot of Shanghai’s rich architectural past and has become known as the “Best Garden in Shanghai.” Zhang Yuan dates back to 1872, when a British merchant bought a plot of farmland and built garden villas in the area. In 1882, it came under the ownership of Chinese entrepreneur Zhang Shuhe, who expanded it and made it into a modern public gathering spot. From the time it opened to the public in 1885 to the early 20th century, Zhang Yuan was regarded as the best-known spot for entertainment activities and cultural diversions in Shanghai. It was where Shanghai’s first entertainment park opened, becoming a popular location for exhibitions, Chinese opera, magic shows, leisure activities, gatherings, speeches, socializing, and dining.

Zhang Yuan,

comprising 43 Shikumen blocks with 28 different styles, and around 170 historic buildings, is the largest, best-preserved, and most diverse Shikumen compound in Shanghai. It presents a wide variety of architectural styles, from garden villas with Western elements to Shikumen with traditional Chinese interiors. The historical buildings epitomize the essence of Shanghai Haipai Culture and “Nongtang” Culture.

The renderings are for reference only.

Exhibition | Artists & Artworks