China’s first national art museum named after an individual stands before us: the Liu Haisu Art Museum. It officially opened on March 16, 1995. This museum is more than just a building. It embodies the spirit of a man and a movement.
Liu Haisu, born in 1896, was a visionary. He dedicated his life to art education and innovation. Liu sought truth, goodness, and beauty through his work. He is considered one of the founding fathers of modern Chinese art education.
In his later years, Liu Haisu made a selfless act. He donated his major works and his collection of paintings and calligraphy to the country. The Liu Haisu Art Museum was founded on this generous donation. It aims to pass on and uphold Liu’s ideals. These include aesthetic education, cultural beliefs, and his artistic path.
Originally, the museum was in the Hongqiao area of Shanghai. In September 2012, it moved to Changning district. This relocation was part of Shanghai’s plan to become an international cultural hub. The Liu Haisu Art Museum now spans 12,540 square meters. Its architecture draws inspiration from Liu’s painting “Cloud Sea and Mountain Rocks.” The building blends with the surrounding greenery. People call it “The most attractive museum in Puxi”.
Inside, the Liu Haisu Art Museum is a comprehensive facility. It combines collection, storage, and academic research. There are exhibition displays plus education and cultural exchange. The museum embraces the concept of “Internet + Art Museum”. It integrates online and offline platforms.
The Liu Haisu Art Museum actively supports young artists. It has an international “Young Artists Program.” This includes exhibitions and the promotion of their artwork. The museum also advocates for openness and sharing. It strengthens cultural exchanges and provides public cultural services.
The museum’s objective is clear. It wants to inherit Liu Haisu’s art spirit. It also wants to develop young talents. It embraces innovation and advocates for Chinese culture. The Liu Haisu Art Museum strives to lead China in art research. It promotes youth art and wants to be a leading art museum in China and the world.
President Jiang Zemin inscribed the museum’s name. This shows its national significance. The Liu Haisu Art Museum has six exhibition halls, a lecture hall, and a reading room. There is also an auditorium and a multi-function hall.
You can easily reach the Liu Haisu Art Museum. It is at No. 1609 West Yan’an Road. Take Metro 3 or 4 to Yan’an Road West Station. Several buses also stop nearby. These include 57, 71, 127, 776, 925, 936, and 946. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The opening times are 9:00 to 17:00. Remember, admission stops after 16:00.