Get ready for an extraordinary year at the Modern Art Museum (MAM) Shanghai, as it gears up to host a stellar lineup of global and Chinese artists in 2024. Positioned as the largest contemporary art museum in Shanghai, MAM is poised to transform into a haven for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of exhibitions that promise to captivate and challenge perceptions.
Kicking off the artistic journey in March is the immersive solo exhibition by contemporary Irish artist Robyn Ward, titled “Walking in the Dark.” This experiential show, running until May 2024, delves into Ward’s nomadic lifestyle, featuring abstract paintings and freestanding sculptures that explore the consequences of perpetual movement. Ward’s work encourages visitors to ponder the motivations behind human roaming and the aftermath of such continuous exploration.
Following this, the spotlight turns to the acclaimed British artist David Hockney in June with the grand opening of “David Hockney: Paper Trails.” This exhibition, extending until August 2024, showcases Hockney’s mastery in printmaking, highlighting his unique approach to capturing daily life through vibrant prints. The collection mirrors his dedication to intimate portraiture and indexing, offering a comprehensive view of his artistic journey.
As the year progresses, September brings the much-anticipated Chinese museum debut of performance art pioneer Marina Abramović. Titled “Transforming Energy,” the exhibition, running until January 2025, explores Abramović’s iconic performance on the Great Wall of China in 1988. Engaging with spiritual materials like quartz, amethyst, and more, Abramović invites the audience to interact directly with her participatory sculptures, creating a meditative experience.
MAM Shanghai remains committed to showcasing local talent as well. From March 2024, “Multiply!!!: Power In Numbers in Contemporary Chinese Art” takes center stage, featuring the works of 12 modern Chinese artists curated by Barbara Pollack. The exhibition includes diverse pieces, from watercolors by Wu Jian’an to cyanotypes by Ma Qiusha, oil paintings by Yuan Yuan, and a mural by Wang Qingsong.
In the words of Shai Baitel, MAM Shanghai’s artistic director, “The 2024 exhibitions will be intriguing explorations in contemporary art and design.” With a focus on public participation and engagement, MAM Shanghai promises a year filled with immersive experiences, challenging perspectives, and a celebration of the vibrant world of modern art. Stay tuned for a transformative journey through creativity and innovation at MAM Shanghai.
