Michael Wang's 'Shanghai Swamp' at Fondazione Prada Rong Zhai explores Lake Tai's ecological history

From 8 April to 5 June 2022, Michael Wang, an American artist, showcased 'Shanghai Swamp' at Rong Zhai, a mansion owned by Fondazione Prada in Shanghai. This exhibition centered on Lake Tai, utilizing biomass from the lake to craft bioplastic sculptures, such as life-sized replicas of hairy crabs and 'scholar stones.' Wang's artistic inquiry delves into the hydrological connections between Lake Tai, Shanghai's Huangpu River, and Suzhou Creek. The mansion's historical association with the lake dates back to its previous owner, Rong Zongjing. One installation highlighted plants that represented vanished wetland ecosystems, while other pieces included 'Suzhou Creek (Piles)' and 'Artifacts (Yixing clay).' Wang had previously addressed similar topics in his 2017 show 'Extinct in the Wild' and took part in the 2021 Shanghai Biennale.