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Contemporary Art in Shanghai and Beijing

September 7 – 18, 2010

In the transitional space between the ancient East and modern West, China’s urban art scene is thriving. As Shanghai gears up to host the World Expo, and Beijing’s artist’s district, 798, continues to grow, the ancient cities confirm themselves as key figures on the global art scene. In celebration of this cultural turning point, art experts, Opus Travel, will host a ten-day tour of the two cities, focusing on emerging talents and contemporary collections, while recalling China’s great art traditions.

Starting in Shanghai, the small group will settle into the luxurious spa resort, Pu Li, before a whistle stop tour of galleries along the famous Bund, including the Shanghai Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art, plus full days at the ShContemporary 10 art fair in Yuyuan Gardens, and the World Expo at Zendai Museum of Modern Art. There will also be the chance to visit working studios in Moganshan and the New Art District.

From Shanghai, the group will fly to Beijing with accommodation at the ultra hip, Opposite House- itself an art gallery representing the ten best Chinese artists working around the world. Visits to exceptional historical sites including the Forbidden City, Tian’an Men Square and the Great Wall, are contrasted with contemporary masterpieces such as the Olympic Stadium, and spectacular Ullens Center, one of the largest private collections of contemporary Chinese art in the world. In additions to expert guides, working artists, curators, and collectors will join the group for a unique, first hand glimpse at the rapidly changing art scene in China today.

Estimated price $8000 (double occupancy), $10,000 (single occupancy) including hotels, all meals, internal flights, ground transportation, and curatorial and entrance fees.

For more information contact Muriel Quancard, muriel@opustravel.com, 646-546-8496.

Read full destination reports on Shanghai and Beijing

Read an interview with Xiaoming Zhang, head of Sotheby’s Chinese Contemporary Art department