Rockbund Art Museum (RAM) is a contemporary art museum at 20 Huqiu Road, near the Bund waterfront in Shanghai. Its home is a restored 1932 Art Deco building that once housed the Royal Asiatic Society. Inside, rotating exhibitions bring together Chinese and international artists, with projects that can span art, architecture, dance and design. There is no permanent collection, so what you see depends on the current programme. The museum is a quieter stop for contemporary art near the busy river promenade; check its website for exhibitions and events before you go.
A former society building turned art museum
Rockbund Art Museum occupies a 1932 Art Deco building at the northern end of the Bund. The building was constructed for the Royal Asiatic Society, which made it one of China’s early modern museums. Its exterior retains the character of the original design, while a later renovation by architect David Chipperfield expanded the usable space and prepared it for the museum.
RAM opened in 2010. Its home is part of the experience: architectural details from the 1930s sit alongside spaces used for contemporary exhibitions. The museum is at 20 Huqiu Road, close to the Bund waterfront and its river promenade.
What to expect inside
There is no permanent collection. Instead, the museum presents temporary exhibitions and projects by Chinese and international artists, so the displays change over time. Past exhibitions have included work by artists such as Cai Guo-Qiang, Zhang Huan, Jenny Holzer and Song Dong.
The programme focuses on contemporary art and experimental projects. Some works use video, while collaborative projects can bring art into conversation with architecture, dance or design. Exhibitions may explore subjects connected to life in a changing society. Check the current programme before your visit to see what is on display and whether any special events are scheduled.
Planning a visit
The museum is a useful addition to a walk around the Bund if you want to spend time with contemporary art away from the river promenade. Its relatively peaceful setting can also make it a calmer stop than the nearby busy streets. A simple roof deck has views across the river; check whether it is accessible during your visit.
RAM has an admission fee, and the museum recommends arranging tickets in advance. Weekdays and early mornings are suggested for a quieter visit. The museum is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance and elevator are wheelchair accessible, as are the restrooms.
FAQ
Where is Rockbund Art Museum?
It is at 20 Huqiu Road in Shanghai’s Huangpu District, near the Bund waterfront.
What can you see at Rockbund Art Museum?
The museum presents changing contemporary art exhibitions by Chinese and international artists. It has no permanent collection, so displays depend on the current programme.
When is Rockbund Art Museum open?
It is closed on Mondays and open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm.
Is Rockbund Art Museum accessible?
The entrance, elevator and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
