The Museum of Contemporary Art, or MoCA, Shanghai first opened in 2005, and has been at the forefront of the city’s contemporary art scene ever since. The all-glass building uses natural light to showcase works by leading Chinese artists, as well as many international exhibitions covering topics including fashion and design installation.
Unlike most leading museums, MoCA Shanghai does not hold a permanent collection on site. Instead, it hosts an ever-changing series of temporary exhibitions, ensuring that it always remains up to date. This is undoubtedly the best venue to discover work by emerging Chinese artists, who draw inspiration from everything from traditional calligraphy to digital media and augmented reality.
MoCA Shanghai also works closely with other leading institutions around the world. A collaboration with the Museo Salvatore Ferragamo in Italy saw hundreds of original pieces by this famous fashion designer displayed in Shanghai. Previous exhibitions have also drawn upon collections held by the Guggenheim Museum in New York.
With such a wide variety of pieces on display, many visitors chose to join a guided tour, provided in both Chinese and English, to get the most out of their experience. Talks by artists and curators are also held at the opening of each new exhibition.
On the top floor, you’ll find the Art Lab restaurant and bar, a venue considered to be a living exhibition. Art, music and design are brought together to create a vibrant meeting place for creative discussion, fuelled by excellent cocktails and delicious food.
Don’t forget to stop in the museum shop on your way out. Many of the souvenirs and gifts are the work of leading local designers.
MoCA Shanghai is open every day, and an entrance fee is payable. The museum is located in the People’s Park in central Shanghai, and can be easily accessed by public transport.
