From April 27 to November 30, 2025, Shanghai’s West Bund Museum hosts David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away), a groundbreaking immersive digital exhibition showcasing the iconic British artist’s lifelong exploration of perception, space, and time. This exhibition marks the first time Hockney’s visionary multimedia work is presented in Shanghai, following successful runs in London, Seoul, and Manchester. Co-created and overseen by Hockney himself over three years, this unique show offers audiences a rare opportunity to dive into the artist’s captivating world through large-scale projections, original narration, and a specially composed musical score by Nico Muhly City News Service Smart Shanghai.
A Multimedia Journey Through Six Decades of Artistic Innovation
Unlike traditional retrospectives, Bigger & Closer is a dynamic one-hour journey divided into six thematic chapters. Visitors are transported from the sun-soaked freeways of Los Angeles to the moody landscapes of Yorkshire, and finally to the tranquil scenery of Normandy—all through Hockney’s experimental lens. The exhibition prominently features large-scale recreations of seminal works like Beverly Hills Housewife (1966), and animated recreations of stage designs for Mozart’s The Magic Flute, immersive Polaroid collages, and vibrant iPad paintings reflecting the joy of springtime.
Hockney’s continual embrace of technology is on full display. Since adopting the iPad as a painting tool in 2010, he has pushed the boundaries of digital media, making the exhibition a vibrant celebration of his melding of traditional art and new digital forms. The show features narrated segments by Hockney himself, with a Chinese-language voiceover by actor Liu Cong, adding a deeply personal and localized touch to the immersive experience Options The Edge Lightroom UK.
Experiencing the Exhibition: Sensory Immersion and Accessibility
Located in the Creativity Gallery of the West Bund Museum, the exhibition’s expansive projections and soundscape envelop visitors in Hockney’s vibrant palettes and layered compositions. The narrative flows seamlessly, and the imagery pulses with light and motion, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. It is particularly popular among families and younger audiences due to its colorful and immersive design.
Timed ticketing allows for a smooth visitor flow, and early bird discounts have made the exhibition accessible to a wide audience. For those looking to explore Hockney’s artistic evolution in a condensed yet evocative format, Bigger & Closer offers a compelling alternative or complement to the larger retrospective at Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris 247tickets Creative City Shanghai.
Cultural Context and Hockney’s Affinity with China
David Hockney’s earlier travels to China inspired significant aspects of his visual language, including his adoption of “shifting perspectives” and “scattered-point perspective,” concepts rooted in traditional Chinese painting. These influences enrich the exhibition, offering a bridge between Western and Eastern art traditions. This immersive show also highlights Hockney’s ongoing relevance as an artist who continuously reinvents himself, embracing technological innovation without losing the core humanistic values in his work City News Service.
FAQ
Q1: When and where is the David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) exhibition held?
A1: The exhibition runs from April 27 to November 30, 2025, at the Creativity Gallery, West Bund Museum, Shanghai.
Q2: What is unique about this exhibition compared to traditional art retrospectives?
A2: It is an immersive, one-hour multimedia experience featuring large-scale projections, soundscapes, and narrated segments, offering a dynamic reinterpretation of Hockney’s works.
Q3: What kind of artworks are featured in the exhibition?
A3: The show includes digital paintings, animated stage designs, photographic collages, and iconic large-scale recreations of Hockney’s paintings.
Q4: Is the exhibition suitable for families or children?
A4: Yes, the exhibition is colorful and engaging, making it very suitable for visitors of all ages, including children.
Q5: How can I buy tickets or get more information?
A5: Tickets are available online through platforms such as 247tickets and the West Bund Museum website. Early booking is recommended due to its popularity.
David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) offers a fresh and vibrant way to experience one of the most significant artists of our time. Through digital innovation and artistic mastery, it invites visitors to see the world through Hockney’s endlessly curious and joyful eyes.