Shanghai’s North Bund waterfront is now displaying vibrant new artworks celebrating the Lunar New Year, specifically the Year of the Horse, created by Spanish artist Juan Carlos Paz Gómez, known professionally as Bakea. The unveiling, which took place on Tuesday, marks the culmination of the Lantern Festival and a growing cultural exchange between Spain and China.
Bakea’s collection, titled “The Power of Transformation,” was developed as part of the Rendez-Vous at North Bund International Artist Residency program. The program aims to foster artistic collaboration and celebrate the 2026 Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength, vitality, and auspicious beginnings in Chinese culture. The artworks reflect a fusion of traditional Chinese motifs and contemporary artistic expression, set against the backdrop of Shanghai’s iconic skyline.
The collection features two distinct visual narratives. One poster showcases a galloping horse rendered in traditional red and gold hues, adorned with intricate Chinese floral patterns and set against a backdrop of recognizable Shanghai landmarks. The second artwork creatively pairs the horse with a monkey, symbolizing the power of teamwork and combining the horse’s energy with the monkey’s intelligence, according to China Daily.
Bakea, who has been commissioned by the Madrid city government to design annual zodiac posters since 2016, explained that adapting his artistic approach for a Chinese audience presented a unique challenge. “Incorporating the Shanghai skyline instead of Madrid required a deeper level of cultural sensitivity,” he said, adding that the local audience possesses a “more discerning eye for how their traditions are interpreted.”
The artist noted a significant shift in cultural awareness surrounding Chinese New Year celebrations in Spain over the past decade. He recalled that in 2016, such celebrations were rare in Madrid. However, this year’s parade attracted over 110,000 spectators and featured more than 2,000 participants, demonstrating a growing appreciation for Chinese culture. “People start looking forward to it early, saying, ‘I wish to spot the horse year poster. I know the upcoming year is the Year of the Horse,’” Bakea stated.
Shi Yunqi, chief curator of the residency program and director of CV Channel Shanghai center, described the North Bund as a dynamic space where “history and the future, East and West” converge. “Bakea’s work precisely captures this spirit,” Shi said, emphasizing how the theme of transformation mirrors the ongoing urban renewal of the North Bund, transitioning from a historic wharf into a modern waterfront destination. China Daily reported Shi’s comments.
Expanding Cultural Exchange
The Rendez-Vous at North Bund program is set to expand its reach, inviting artists from France, Germany, and Russia to participate in future residencies. These artists will explore a range of artistic mediums, including sculpture and digital installation, according to Shi. The program’s goal extends beyond simply showcasing foreign artists; it aims to foster genuine cultural integration, exemplified by Bakea’s successful blend of Chinese zodiac traditions with his own artistic style and urban influences.
Bakea’s broader artistic profile reveals a diverse range of skills. He is an illustrator, art director, and sculptor, with a portfolio showcased on Behance, demonstrating over 1.1 million project views and a substantial following. His work has been described as mixing digital design, illustration, and photography to create character-driven pieces, as noted by Pictoplasma.
The North Bund’s Transformation
The North Bund area of Shanghai has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, transforming from a historical industrial zone into a modern waterfront district. This revitalization project aims to create a world-class destination for commerce, culture, and tourism. The artist residency program and the unveiling of Bakea’s artworks are part of a broader effort to enhance the area’s cultural appeal and attract international attention.
Looking ahead, the Rendez-Vous at North Bund program is expected to continue attracting artists from diverse backgrounds, further enriching the cultural landscape of Shanghai. The program’s emphasis on cultural integration and artistic collaboration positions it as a key driver of cross-cultural understanding and creative innovation. The success of Bakea’s exhibition signals a promising future for the program and its contribution to the evolving cultural identity of the North Bund.
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