Public encouraged to take part in artwork trading month

Ti Gong

Experts, artists and architects shared their views on how art can enliven the city at a public lecture on the West Bund, as part of the second Shanghai International Artwork Trade Month.

The Huangpu River waterfront in Xuhui District is hosting the event through November 15, featuring autumn auctions from world leaders such as Sotheby's and Christie's, as well as exhibitions by prestigious galleries, artists and collectors from home and abroad.

Kong Dada, director of the Shanghai Culture Artwork Research Institute, said the international art ambiance of Shanghai dates back to over 200 years ago.

“The city has been attracting, exchanging and blending art from across the world to form its own unique features,” Kong told the Hui Forum at the newly launched West Bund Art Museum over the weekend.

Beijing used to be the main site for most global art galleries and institutes, but now the number of galleries and museums in Shanghai is increasing rapidly, he said.

The number of private art museums in Shanghai ranks top among domestic cities. The Yangtze River Delta region has also become a major base for art trading in China. Art trading revenue of the region accounts for 42 percent of the nation’s total, Kong said.

Ti Gong

He encouraged public participation in artwork trading during the monthlong event. “After buying a favorite artwork, you can research it to learn new information, make friends and improve yourself,” he said.

Liu Yi, a professor with Shanghai Institute of Visual Art and a well-known public art curator, asked the audiences to love the beauty of nature, life and the future with his personal stories.

“Art can brighten the city and every citizen should be part of this mission,” Liu said.

Under the theme of “Global Art in Shanghai Time,” the trading month includes more than 100 art events. Many online auctions and exhibitions will also be held for overseas buyers amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Ti Gong

Ti Gong