In celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year, Shanghai has unveiled a series of large-scale art installations inspired by the Year of the Horse across major malls and shopping areas. From interactive carousels to contemporary light and sculptural works, each display offers a distinctive way to experience the festive season while exploring the city's urban landscape.

L+Mall

A double-decker carousel, standing 18 meters tall, slowly rotates in the mall's fifth-floor atrium. Outside, the facade is wrapped in a 1,500-square-meter illuminated artwork titled Dreamer's Ride, inviting passersby to pause and take photos.

Address: No 899 South Pudong Road

No 1 Yaohan Department Store

The mall's curved exterior has been transformed into a dynamic light show, featuring golden horses galloping across a star-filled backdrop. Inside, a pop-up with the pink character FUFUSOUL adds a playful touch to the festive setting. From Feb 13, visitors can collect virtual Star Cards by tapping NFC-enabled devices, with completed sets redeemable for exclusive rewards.

Address: No 501 Zhangyang Road

No 1 Department Store

Located on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, No 1 Department Store presents a large lantern installation created for the Year of the Horse. Topped by a leaping horse, the structure features a floral, star-inspired walkway below, blending traditional lantern craftsmanship with contemporary lighting design. Against the backdrop of one of Shanghai's busiest commercial streets, the installation serves as a clear focal point for the seasonal display.

Address: No 830 East Nanjing Road

CITIC Square

In collaboration with creative agency Rinceau, CITIC Square presents an art exhibition inspired by Xu Beihong's renowned ink-and-wash paintings of horses. Layered linework and geometric mirror elements reinterpret the dynamism of horses within a contemporary commercial space.

Address: No 1168 West Nanjing Road

Jing'an Temple Square

At the center of the square stands a brightly illuminated carousel. Set against the historic architecture of Jing'an Temple, the artwork creates a striking visual contrast. Home to the iconic Apple Store, the square remains a lively gathering place throughout the day.

Address: No 1661 West Nanjing Road

The Inlet

Large-scale light installations transform this busy shopping area into a glowing urban playground. From Jan 23, the Haipai Lantern Festival will radiate throughout the area, with horse-themed displays appearing across the site.

Address: No 939 Alley 989, North Sichuan Road

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, and venues mentioned above