Shenzhen, Paris sign pact for 'art and beauty'

A government delegation from Shenzhen signed a strategic cooperation agreement for the Shenzhen Culture Square with the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Manufactures nationales — Sèvres & Mobilier national in Paris on March 20 (Beijing Time).

Han Jiaying (L front), chief curator of Shenzhen Culture Square, and Jacques Bungert (R front), president of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, sign a strategic cooperation agreement at a ceremony in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs — Lounge 1900, Paris, on March 20. Photos coutesy of Shenzhen Culture Square

This collaboration symbolizes a"mutual journey" between cultural landmarks of the two cities and represents a cultural dialogue centered on "art and beauty" between Shenzhen and Paris.

Jacques Bungert

Jacques Bungert, president of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, praised Shenzhen for its unique combination of "modernity and innovation" and expressed anticipation for the cooperation between the two cities.

Hervé Lemoine, president of the National Department of Movable Cultural Heritage of the French Ministry of Culture, also expressed admiration for Shenzhen’s strong commitment to preserving its cultural heritage amidst the wave of high technology.

Han Jiaying (L front), chief curator of Shenzhen Culture Square, and Hervé Lemoine (R front), president of the National Department of Movable Cultural Heritage of the French Ministry of Culture, shake hands after signing a strategic cooperation agreement during a signing ceremony at the Manufactures nationales — Sèvres & Mobilier National in Paris on March 20. 

Wu Jun, deputy secretary-general of the Shenzhen Municipal Government, highlighted that Shenzhen, a modern city renowned for its spirit of reform, openness, and innovation, possesses immense potential. She noted that this agreement ushers in a new chapter of cooperation between the two museums and in cultural exchanges between the two cities, with high expectations for fruitful outcomes in the mutual learning and exchange of civilizations.

Designed by MAD Architects led by renowned architect Ma Yansong, the Shenzhen Culture Square in Nanshan District is scheduled to open in October this year. The ambitious cultural cosismplex covers an approximate area of 51,000 square meters, with a total building area of 188,000 square meters. It will serve as a dynamic hub integrating design art exhibitions, design education, and public cultural activities. Additionally, it aims to foster a dialogue that bridges tradition and modernity, as well as local and global perspectives, enhancing collaboration and understanding among diverse artistic communities worldwide.