ShanghART

ShanghART Gallery, founded in 1996 by Swiss-born art dealer Lorenz Helbling, stands as one of China's first and most influential contemporary art galleries. Located initially in Shanghai's Portman Shangri-La Hotel, the gallery soon established itself in the burgeoning art scene with a reputation for promoting cutting-edge works by Chinese artists. Undeterred by the challenges of operating in a country where contemporary art was still in its nascent stages, ShanghART expanded its presence both domestically and internationally.

In 1998, ShanghART moved to a larger space in the Eastlink Gallery compound, which allowed for more ambitious exhibitions and a broader range of artistic endeavors. This move marked a significant period of growth, solidifying its role as a major player in the Chinese contemporary art market. By 2002, the gallery had launched its first international exhibition in Berlin, which was an essential milestone in bridging Chinese contemporary art with the global scene.

The gallery was pivotal in fostering the careers of numerous prominent Chinese artists, such as Zhang Enli, Yang Fudong, and Ding Yi. It placed a spotlight on multi-disciplinary approaches, embracing painting, installation, video art, and performance. These collaborations brought critical attention and acclaim to the works showcased, often challenging conventional perceptions of art within Chinese society and abroad.

ShanghART also ventured into curatorial projects and publications, establishing a broader dialogue within the art community. In 2008, it inaugurated a secondary space in the Moganshan Road Art District, further cementing its influence within Shanghai's thriving art scene. This space was later complemented by an even more expansive venue, the West Bund Art & Design Center, which opened in 2014, offering visitors a deeper engagement with contemporary art.

The gallery's expansion continued as it opened locations in Beijing in 2010 and Singapore in 2012, strategically positioning itself within Asia's growing art hubs. ShanghART's trajectory is defined by its unwavering commitment to elevating contemporary Chinese art on the world stage, maintaining an influential presence in the international art market while fostering innovative artistic expression.