"Encounter" Between Historical Space and Contemporary Art
The 2019 Urban Space Art Season took the 5.5-kilometer southern waterfront public space of Yangpu Riverside as its exhibition ground, with the former Shanghai Shipyard site (including the dry dock and hemp warehouse) serving as the main exhibition area.
This year's Art Season adopted the theme of "Encounter," inviting visitors to explore the vibrant Yangpu Riverside and "encounter" art and the city's future. It also encouraged attendees to discover and create more beautiful "encounters" during their visit. The 2019 Shanghai Urban Space Art Season welcomed people from around the world to "encounter" Shanghai.
The Shanghai Shipyard (West Yard), an urban renewal project designed by urbanDATA, was selected for its historical significance and representation of China's modern industrial development. These elements were systematically studied and preserved from the project's inception, forming the foundation for the site's transformation.
Before renovation, the shipyard and dry dock were idle and enclosed, with many dilapidated buildings in urgent need of restoration. While fully respecting the site's existing conditions, the project protected and preserved its industrial heritage, authentically showcasing the structures and traces of the century-old shipyard wharf. This highlights Yangpu Riverside's profound historical significance as the birthplace of modern industry.
The dialogue between century-old industrial relics and the contemporary waterfront creates comfortable, healthy, and emotionally enriching public spaces.
Beyond the dock gate, other highlights of the shipyard area—such as the aesthetically striking Generator Café, century-old ship slipway, and Welding Plaza—have become must-visit landmarks of the "2019 Shanghai Urban Space Art Season."
For those who haven't yet experienced the Yangpu Riverside, with its rich history and artistic atmosphere, the National Day holiday offers the perfect opportunity to stroll along this remarkable waterfront promenade!
Exhibition Information
2019 Shanghai Urban Space Art Season — Encounter
Exhibition Area: Includes the main exhibition venue and the 5.5-kilometer southern waterfront public space of Yangpu Riverside
Main Venue Address: No. 468 Yangshupu Road, Shanghai (includes the dry dock and hemp warehouse)
Main Venue Opening Hours:
September 29 – November 30, 2019
Tuesday – Friday: 14:00-20:00
Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays: 10:00–20:00 (closed for maintenance on October 7)
Closed on Mondays (except September 30)
Organizers:
Shanghai Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau
Shanghai Municipal Culture and Tourism Bureau
Yangpu District People's Government
Admission: Free (tickets available via official WeChat account or on-site)