The Institute for Contemporary Culture (ICC) at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) announces a new publication to accompany its exhibition, Shanghai Kaleidoscope. The exhibition presents a provocative selection of artworks in various media that convey the futuristic spirit of contemporary art, architecture and fashion in China’s fastest growing city, which is also emerging as an international art centre. Presented by Manulife Financial, the exhibition is on view in the ROM’s Roloff Beny Gallery from May 4, 2008 to November 2, 2008.
Far more than a record of the works in the exhibition, the Shanghai Kaleidoscope catalogue is an up-to-the-moment snapshot of one of the most dynamic cultures in the world, a landmark publication that defines today’s Shanghai. Written by Christopher Phillips, who served as the exhibition’s guest curator from the International Center of Photography in New York, the 144-page publication also contains lively contributions from leading international experts: Yomi Braester (on the city’s presence in cinema history), Lev Manovich (on architecture and design) and Sally Wu (on the growing fashion industry). Interviews with eight of Shanghai’s leading creators--artists, architects, filmmakers, and fashion designers--are also included, to give more personal perspectives on the city’s fast-paced lifestyle.
The Shanghai Kaleidoscope catalogue is colourful, edgy and informative, and features hundreds of photographs and illustrations. Its striking graphic design was created by the leading international branding firm INTERBRAND. Their design work having been generously contributed to the ICC, they have been recognized as an Exhibit Patron.
“INTERBRAND is extremely pleased to support and collaborate with the ICC at the ROM and curator Christopher Phillips in creating the exhibition catalogue for Shanghai Kaleidoscope,” said Bev Tudhope, Chief Executive, INTERBRAND. “As a global brand consultancy with over 30 offices in major centres, including Shanghai, we recognize the dynamic force that this city is becoming on the world stage, both economically and culturally. Our design approach to the catalogue is meant to capture the fascinating spirit and energy of Shanghai and its inspired creative class.”
The Shanghai Kaleidoscope catalogue is available in the ROM Museum Store for the retail price of $45 for the soft cover and $65 for the hard cover edition, plus applicable taxes. To order, please visit the Store or call 416.586.5766. The catalogue will soon be available internationally.