International designers display their work in Xintiandi

(Source: CGTN)

A special exhibition on the sidelines of Shanghai's annual design expo, is showcasing 18 different art installations in and around Xintiandi in downtown Huangpu District.

Visual artist Jayson Atienza was painting in a transparent glass room in front of Xintiandi Style Shopping Center. He was painting a luxurious bed from Sweden worth around 70,000 US dollars.

"I'm really excited about this colla boration because it's in the middle of Xintiandi, in front of so many people, interacting with the bed, kind of like looking and seeing what's going on. So this is the first platform that I'm able to interact with the public while I'm painting the exclusive Dux b ed. My inspiration for the bed is I want to create a piece, kind of inspired from spring, and give the energy of spring," Atienza said.

It was the first time Design Shanghai has cooperated with artists outside of the fair.  Organizers say the goal is to create a highly interactive, participatory and creative atmosphere that brings visitors closer to the designs.

"There are 18 installations that are based on different furnishing products. It's interactive and also presents the latest design trends. It's our first attempt to bring these products out of the exhibition center. I really hope it will be successful," Zhang Liangjun, project manager with Xintiandi Taipingqiao said.

Du Xinyue, one of the curators and also an artist, has brought her conceptional art installation to the south block of Xintiandi. Her selection of hand-woven carpets and mirrors took quite a while to complete.

"It took us four months to finish the project. Our goal is to represent the brand's history and value through art, which I believe will let consumers understand the things they purchase better and be more rational when they shop," Du said.

The installations are presented in south and north block of Xintiandi. The exhibition is free and runs until this Sunday.