'Spring Shanghai' pop-up brings city's creative energy to Milan streets

Blending familiar European street elements with Chinese aesthetics, the installation offers a multi-sensory experience through digital technologies such as VR, AR and AI. Visitors can explore Shanghai's urban development, cultural heritage and contemporary lifestyle — from the 7,000-year-old water town of Zhujiajiao to the city's role as a global hub for innovation and trade.

Food, fashion, beauty and lifestyle products from Shanghai are also showcased, allowing visitors to engage in hands-on activities and creative workshops. Organizers said the event aims to present Shanghai in a fresh, stylish way while fostering cultural exchange through art and design.

The installation was designed by Italian spatial designer Edoardo Nieri, who has lived in Shanghai for more than a decade. Drawing inspiration from the magnolia blossom, he described Shanghai as "a city where greenery and creativity coexist". The structure features a fresh green palette complemented by white floral tones, integrating over 30 artworks created by Chinese and international artists.