Enjoy China

For international visitors seeking to explore the cutting edge of contemporary Chinese art and experience the perfect blend of industrial heritage and artistic innovation, the Power Station of Art (PSA), located on the banks of the Huangpu River, is undoubtedly an exciting and profound destination. As the first state-run contemporary art museum in mainland China, PSA is more than just an exhibition space; it’s a living history of urban transformation and an open platform for dialogue with global art.

Unique Architecture: From Power Plant to Art Temple

The architecture of PSA is one of its greatest highlights. It was formerly the Nanshi Power Plant, a thermal power plant built in the late 19th century that continuously supplied power to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. During the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, this massive industrial relic was successfully transformed into the “Urban Future Pavilion” and officially renamed the Power Station of Art in 2012.

The architects skillfully preserved the power plant’s original structure and industrial elements, such as the towering chimney, the vast turbine hall, and the rugged concrete walls. The majestic 165-meter-high chimney has now become a striking artistic landmark along the Huangpu River. At night, it illuminates, becoming an integral part of Shanghai’s skyline. The museum’s spacious, high-ceilinged, and pillar-free exhibition halls provide an ideal canvas for large-scale installations, immersive projects, and multimedia art, creating a strong and dynamic dialogue between the artworks and the industrial historical building. This innovative transformation of industrial heritage has not only breathed new life into old structures but also demonstrates Shanghai’s respect for and revitalization of its historical context during urban development.

The Pulse of Art: Focusing on Contemporary and Global Dialogue

The Power Station of Art is committed to being a significant promoter of contemporary Chinese art and an active platform for international art exchange. Its exhibitions and programs focus on the latest developments in contemporary art, encompassing various art forms such as painting, sculpture, installation, video, new media, and architecture.

Home of the Shanghai Biennale: PSA is the main venue for the internationally renowned Shanghai Biennale. As one of Asia’s oldest and most influential international contemporary art biennials, the Shanghai Biennale is held every two years, gathering leading artists and cutting-edge works from around the world to explore global issues. It is a crucial window into global contemporary art trends and China’s contemporary art ecosystem. If you visit during the Biennale, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a true art feast.

Major Domestic and International Exhibitions: In addition to the Biennale, PSA regularly hosts various major solo and group exhibitions by prominent domestic and international artists, introducing many internationally renowned contemporary artworks and providing a platform for outstanding Chinese artists. You can see works in diverse styles and genres, from conceptual art to performance art, from abstract expressionism to digital art, experiencing the infinite possibilities of art.

Architecture and Design Exhibitions: PSA also pays special attention to the fields of architecture and design. It has hosted several influential exhibitions on architectural and urban design themes, exploring urban development, spatial utilization, and the future of human habitats. For architecture enthusiasts, these exhibitions offer unique perspectives on understanding the connection between cities and art.

Public Education and Academic Exchange: PSA is not only an exhibition venue but also a platform for learning and exchange. It regularly organizes various public education activities such as lectures, seminars, workshops, and film screenings, inviting artists, curators, and scholars to engage in in-depth dialogue with the public. These activities bring art down from its pedestal, integrating it into daily life and encouraging audience participation and reflection.

An Important Member of the West Bund Culture Corridor

The Power Station of Art is located at the northern end of Shanghai’s West Bund Culture Corridor, forming a “museum avenue” alongside a series of renowned art institutions like Long Museum, West Bund Museum, and Yuz Museum. The entire West Bund area has transformed from a former industrial zone into a vibrant waterfront public space integrating art, culture, technology, and ecology, becoming a new cultural symbol of Shanghai.

After visiting PSA, you can stroll along the beautiful West Bund Riverside Promenade, enjoying the breeze from the Huangpu River and admiring the urban scenery on both banks. The promenade is dotted with various public art installations and repurposed industrial relics, such as pump stations and coal hoppers, which are cleverly integrated into the design of the public space, telling stories of history while embracing the future. This is also an excellent place for running, cycling, and relaxing.

Surrounding Experiences and Helpful Tips

• Nearby Dining: There are also some cafes and casual dining options around PSA, making it convenient for you to take a break after viewing the exhibitions. If you want to experience more diverse cuisine, you can head towards the nearby Nanpu Bridge area or the Lujiazui direction.
• Transportation: PSA is easily accessible. You can take Metro Line 4 to Nanpu Bridge Station, then walk for approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses are also an option.
• Opening Hours and Tickets: Generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays. Ticket prices typically range from 50-80 RMB, and some special exhibitions may require separate tickets. It is advisable to check the official website or its WeChat official account in advance for specific opening hours, exhibition information, and ticket prices, and to make an online reservation.
• Allocate Time: It is recommended to set aside at least half a day for your visit to fully experience all the exhibition halls and the architecture itself.
• Photography: Photography without flash is generally permitted inside the museum, but please be sure to adhere to specific rules within each gallery and respect the artworks and other visitors’ viewing experience.

The Power Station of Art, with its unique industrial architectural charm and forward-thinking artistic perspective, is becoming an indispensable force on the global contemporary art map. For international visitors hoping to delve into the development of Chinese contemporary art, feel the vitality of urban transformation, and seek unique cultural experiences, PSA will undoubtedly offer an unforgettable artistic journey.