Liu Haisu Art Museum with its blue, glass pyramid construction stands for the contemporary art in China. A newly designated national art museum it stocks works from the collection of its namesake, Mr. Liu Haisu (1896-1994), who was one of the founders of the China New Art Movement of the 1920's and 30's. Here you can enjoy the works of Liu Haisu himself, displays from his collection and changing special exhibits from the new stars of Chinese contemporary art.
The displays are well laid out and interesting to peruse for an understanding of how modern art developed in China. It's a shame that the introductions to exhibits and plaques next to each work is in Chinese only, though you can still enjoy the art without any explanations. The museum also seems quite empty with more staff than visitors, which again can be a good thing if you like peace and quiet.
There is an art book shop located on the ground floor where you can buy books on early modern art in China, and postcards of the works of Chinese modern artists (1.5 yuan each or 10 yuan for a set). There is also, strangely, a traditional Chinese furniture shop where you can pick up some interesting, if bulky, items such as a traditional Chinese 'Kang' bed for 3,377 yuan, or a carved wooden screen for 1,143 yuan.
Address: 1660, Hongqiao Rd. near Shuicheng Rd.
Tickets: 10 yuan (adult), 5 yuan (student)
Hours: 9am-4pm (closed on Monday)
Tel: +8621-6270-1018
Traffic: Nearest metro station is Hongqiao Road, line 3 but this is still quite far from the museum. From the metro station you need to take Bus 748 to Shuicheng Road, which will take about 10 minutes. |
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