Shanghai Expo Culture Park set to host flower, art exhibition

The Shanghai Expo Culture Park is set to launch an exhibition combining rare plants with contemporary sculptures from Feb 14 to May 20, featuring over 500 precious plants and 19 sculptural works.

The exhibition's design incorporates 16 themed landscapes designed according to classical Chinese garden principles, blending garden scenery, rare flora and sculptural art.

At the heart of the exhibition lies a collection of rare plants, including more than 100 weeping plum trees representing over 20 distinct cultivars. A particularly spectacular one, standing 10 meters tall with an 8-meter crown spread, will make its first public appearance in Shanghai.

The exhibition's flowering schedule has been carefully planned to provide an evolving display throughout its duration. Between mid and late March, over 100 large weeping cherry trees will form a sea of pink and white blossoms.

This display will transition into the blooming of azaleas and wisteria from mid-March to early May, with premium wisteria varieties forming cascading purple clusters. Late April and early May will see the introduction of new bearded iris varieties.

Through collaboration with Shanghai's HOW Art Museum, the exhibition showcases works by seven contemporary artists from home and abroad. These pieces are arranged in three major clusters, using sculpture as a medium to blend Chinese and Western aesthetics within the natural landscape.

To enhance the visitor experience, two seasonal markets will operate throughout the exhibition. Contemporary art pieces, design products, and culinary delights will be offered at the markets, while a stamp-collection activity offers participants the chance to claim exclusive souvenirs.

Admission tickets range from 39 yuan ($5.60) for early-bird purchases to 98 yuan for standard entry, with special rates available for families, seniors, children and special groups. Tickets can be purchased through major online platforms including WeChat, Dianping, Meituan, Ctrip, Tongcheng Travel and Damai.