I. M. Pei, the renowned Chinese American architect, left an indelible mark on the world of architecture with his seven decades of work. His buildings, such as the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, the Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong, and the Suzhou Museum, not only redefined modern architecture but also honored history and place. Born in Guangzhou, China, in 1917, Pei spent his early years in Shanghai and Suzhou, where he was exposed to the city’s traditional gardens and urban landscapes. This cross-cultural upbringing instilled in him a unique design sensibility that blended Eastern and Western influences. His early exposure to the natural beauty of Jiangnan landscapes had a lasting impact on his architectural style, shaping his ability to create timeless and harmonious spaces. This Shanghai exhibition, titled “I. Pei: Life Is Architecture,” is a testament to Pei’s enduring legacy. Organized by the Power Station of Art (PSA) and M+, the exhibition will feature over 400 drawings, models, photographs, and films that showcase Pei’s remarkable career. Many of these works have never been seen on the mainland before, making this exhibition a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the architect’s work in a new and intimate way. The exhibition is divided into six themes that explore Pei’s life, work, and legacy. The themes include his multicultural upbringing, his innovations in material and structure, his civic-minded museum designs, and his ability to blend modernism with historical tradition.

• Early exposure to Jiangnan gardens and urban landscapes
• Development of a cross-cultural design sensibility
• Creation of timeless and harmonious spaces

Some of the highlights of the exhibition include:

The exhibition also features a range of interactive elements, including:

• Drawings and models created by Pei himself
• Photographs and films of Pei’s projects
• Interactive displays and installations

One of the highlights of the exhibition is the lecture series, which will include a roundtable discussion on Pei’s influence in China. The roundtable will bring together experts from various fields to discuss the impact of Pei’s work on Chinese architecture and design. “I. Pei’s work has had a profound impact on the development of modern architecture,” said one expert. “His ability to blend modernism with historical tradition has inspired generations of architects and designers.”
The exhibition design by architect James Wei Ke is a testament to Pei’s legacy. The design echoes the layered spatial qualities of Chinese gardens, creating a multisensory journey through Pei’s architectural vision. “The exhibition is a tribute to I. Pei’s enduring legacy,” said James Wei Ke. “It’s a chance for us to rediscover the man behind the buildings.”
Pei’s life, shaped by movement between cultures, is reflected in his work. His buildings, such as the Louvre Pyramid and the Bank of China Tower, are timeless spaces that bridge tradition and modernity. In the city where his journey began, this exhibition invites visitors to rediscover the man whose designs helped shape the world. In conclusion, “I. Pei: Life Is Architecture” is a must-see exhibition that showcases the remarkable career of one of the world’s most renowned architects. With its diverse range of works, interactive elements, and lecture series, this exhibition is a testament to Pei’s enduring legacy. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience Pei’s work in a new and intimate way, and to rediscover the man behind the buildings. Don’t miss this chance to revisit the visionary architect I.