Jiang Dahai's Major Solo Exhibition Opens at Shanghai's Power Station of Art

A major solo exhibition of Jiang Dahai opened at the Power Station of Art (PSA) in Shanghai today, marking the noted Chinese abstract painter's first large-scale independent exhibition on the Chinese mainland in more than two decades.

Titled "Jiang Dahai: Structure Cachée," the exhibition runs through February 28, 2027, at Espace Gabrielle Chanel on the museum's third floor. Curated by Gong Yan, director of PSA, it brings together monumental paintings Jiang created over the past decade alongside representative works from earlier stages of his career.

Born in Nanjing in 1946, Jiang studied at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing and later at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His exposure to both Chinese and Western artistic traditions helped shape his distinctive approach to abstract painting.

Jiang began exploring abstraction in the 1980s, developing a restrained visual language characterized by subtle colors, layered textures and an emphasis on the spiritual dimensions of painting.

The exhibition traces his artistic journey from early figurative works to large-scale abstract compositions, exploring the relationship between visible forms and underlying structures.

Drawing inspiration from music and traditional Chinese philosophy, Jiang approaches painting as an open space where rhythm, harmony and seemingly invisible forces interact. His works invite visitors to look beyond their immediate visual impressions and discover the subtle structures beneath seemingly tranquil surfaces.

The exhibition also features a documentary of the same name, offering a glimpse into Jiang's creative process and daily life in his Paris studio.

If you go

Dates: November 13, 2026-February 28, 2027

Venue: Espace Gabrielle Chanel (3/F), Power Station of Art

Address: 678 Miaojiang Rd 苗江路678号

Time: 11am-7pm, Tuesday to Sunday (last admission at 6pm; closed Mondays)

Admission: Free