Shanghai Exhibit

I went to the Shanghai Exhibit today in San Francisco at the Asian Art Museum. I highly recommend it.

My knowledge of the history was nil before I walked through the tinted doors into the world of Shanghai 1845 to 2010. It is remarkable juxtaposition of a Western and European culture descending upon an Asian culture.

The architecture is startling - seeing modern square buildings lining up along the river. Seeing the inlet full of boats. It became a thriving city, the wealthiest of Chinese cities. Opium, tea, silk. There was was a thriving film industry! The art reflects how the western habits, clothing, stuff seeped into their lives. Women with bound feet playing billiards. Courtesans peering through binoculars at Trinity Church nearby.

Really amazing exhibit. go see.