Experts and scholars talk about the architectural design and exhibition planning of Nanjing Museum

From October 16 to 18, a high-level dialogue event titled “Craftsmanship of Qinhuai: Museum Architectural Design and Exhibition Planning” took place in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Experts and scholars in the fields of museum architecture and exhibition art gathered to discuss innovative ideas and solutions for the sustainable development of museums, focusing on cultural preservation and transmission.

Gong Liang, the honorary president of the Nanjing Museum, emphasized the importance of architecture in museums, stating, “Today, we see that many great museums consider their buildings to be the first exhibit.” He forecasted that the future of museums will be characterized by greater diversity and differentiation. “We hope that the external architecture reflects local civilizations or the unique characteristics of the museum. The internal space should represent a cultural exhibition space. An effective museum should combine space, aesthetics, and storytelling,” he added.

Chen Ruijin, Vice President of the Chinese Museum Association and Deputy Director of the Suzhou Cultural Relics Bureau, articulated that a successful modern museum achieves a perfect and harmonious integration between architectural design and internal functional needs. “Good museum architecture should seamlessly incorporate artwork within it, rather than merely showcasing the structure. Therefore, during the design phase, it’s essential to harmonize the entire exhibition space with both the interior and exterior while integrating the exhibits,” he explained.

When discussing the concept of symbiosis, Professor Li Li from Tongji University’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning noted that this design approach transcends the relationship between architecture and the external environment. For museums, it signifies the symbiosis between architectural design and exhibition art. “Architectural design and exhibition art are not adversaries; they are part of a shared interest. Only when these two elements truly coexist can museums create continuous and delightful experiences for their audiences,” he stated.

Liu Kecheng, a professor at Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, observed that modern museum design should prioritize space as the central theme, making it a pivotal part of the museum’s narrative. “Space is not merely a spectator in the storytelling process; it is an active participant. The essence of spatial storytelling lies in establishing connections—between people, between individuals and objects, between people and cities, and between society and history,” he explained.

This forum was hosted by the Nanjing Da Bao En Temple Ruins Museum. Wang Wenxi, the museum director, shared insights about the significance of the Da Bao En Temple site, describing it as the largest and most well-preserved ancient temple site in China. As interest in cultural heritage continues to rise, the Nanjing Da Bao En Temple Ruins Museum has seen an influx of visitors, setting new attendance records during the recent National Day holiday.