Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam has officially opened “Ma Yansong: Architecture and Emotion,” a comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the celebrated Chinese architect and his firm, MAD Architects. The showcase traces Ma’s journey from early speculative concepts to the emotionally resonant, nature-inspired designs that define his global reputation today.
Visitors can expect an immersive experience, featuring dynamic scale models, multimedia displays, and artistic installations. These elements chart Ma’s evolution—from bold conceptual beginnings to his mature, organic architectural language.
From Urban Experimentation to Shanshui Philosophy
The exhibition opens with MAD’s early work in 2000s China, a period marked by rapid urban transformation. Notable projects from this era include a canopy proposal for the former World Trade Center site, the 800 Metre Tower, and a fish-perspective aquarium—each pushing the boundaries of traditional design.
As the timeline advances into the 2010s, the narrative highlights Ma’s growing emphasis on “shanshui” architecture, inspired by the philosophical and aesthetic principles of traditional Chinese landscape painting. This shift is explored in depth through the Embodied Nature section, which examines how MAD incorporates natural forms, symbolism, and emotional depth into their work.
Humanising the Future of Architecture
Though often described as futuristic, Ma Yansong’s designs reflect a profound desire to bridge past and future. The exhibition features key projects such as the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles and Rotterdam’s Fenix Museum—both exemplifying the firm’s use of hand-drawn sketches to preserve the human touch in an increasingly digital industry.
A highlight of the experience is an AI-powered installation that invites visitors to transform their own sketches into MAD-style architecture, mirroring Ma’s famous “Tornado” sketch for the Fenix Museum.
A Landmark Showcase Outside China
“This exhibition is a major moment,” said Aric Chen, General and Artistic Director of the Nieuwe Instituut.
“In an astonishingly short period, China produced some of the world’s most influential and groundbreaking architecture, and now that work is making its mark around the world. Ma Yansong and MAD are at the forefront of this. We are proud to present their first solo museum exhibition outside China in over a decade.”
Originally planned for a shorter duration, “Architecture and Emotion” has been extended through October 12, 2025. Additionally, the museum will host a special event, “An Evening With Ma Yansong,” on June 26, offering visitors the chance to hear directly from the architect about his design philosophy.
Exhibition Venue:
Nieuwe Instituut
Museumpark 25, 3015 EK
Rotterdam, Netherlands