The M50 Shanghai, located at No. 50 Moganshan Road in Putuo District, is a creative hub, often referred to simply as M50. Once the site of the Shanghai Chunming Woolen Mill, this district has evolved into one of Shanghai’s iconic art spaces, housing over 140 artist studios, galleries and cultural institutions from 20 countries and regions. For example the ShanghART Gallery, founded by Lorenz Helbling and the Bizart Space, established by Italian artist Ledoudou, are among China’s leading galleries, both holding prestigious reputations in the international art community.
On a grey Sunday afternoon Elise and me went to visit the place and we explored almost all of the studios. Some super hidden and most of them featured paintings. Only one photography exhibition, some sculptures, graffiti and a lot of small cafes.
Our highlight though is island6, easily one of the most innovative, thought-provoking, and interactive galleries. Led by artist Liu Dao, this collective of painters, writers, and multimedia artists creates captivating works that blend moving LED lights, 2D wall hangings with embedded video, and a fusion of retro aesthetics with futuristic elements. I never saw creative art like that before and the pieces really stood out!
The whole M50 area reminded me a bit about Berlin and some of the artsy places there. Built in a post industrial setting, huge spaces transformed into lively and creative environments. On top not that many visitors although we were on a weekend. English speaking Chinese people on top for sure another enclave in the futuristic metropolis.
Chapeau!
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