Shanghai's Art Lifestyle: Fairs, Collectors, and New Money

In September 2007, the inaugural international contemporary art fair, ArtShanghai, took place in a neo-classical structure donated by Stalin in Shanghai. Censorship influenced the event's participation, leading to a predominance of European artists over American ones. Yang Bin, a millionaire from Beijing, focuses solely on acquiring Chinese contemporary art, with the exception of two pieces by Anselm Kiefer, making his selections based on market trends. His collection is showcased near his residence, where he entertains guests. On the Bund, a property owned by a real estate mogul features a Hugo Boss store, a gallery launched by Director Weng Ling, and a French dining establishment. The opening exhibition highlighted Liu Jianhua's "Dialectical Views on Social Spectacle." The following day, Pearl Lam's Contrasts Gallery hosted a formal dinner for 250 attendees, complete with various performances. Lam represents Zhang Huan, who operates studios in both New York and Shanghai.