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Designed In China:
Contemporary Design for Shenzhen University
School of Art and Design at Shenzhen University

Innovative design is one of the keys to being on the cutting edge in a global economy. Modern China has one of the fastest growing economies in the world and is not only a major global manufacturing force but increasingly plays an important role in international marketing and design. Creativity and innovation are hallmarks of design education in China. Recently many new schools have been created, and already established design schools are revamping programs and re-training teachers to meet the needs of the 21st century.

Designed in China features recent work by college students in the School of Art and Design at Shenzhen University (SZU) in Shenzhen, China. Their work fuses contemporary design, influences of traditional Chinese culture, and current science and technology. With more than 70 pieces from over 100 students, the exhibit includes 2D and 3D computer animation, video and motion media, digital stills, comics and storyboards, fashion design and garments, graphic design, industrial design and environmental design. The School of Art and Design offers bachelor's and master’s degrees in five main fields of study: Industrial Design, Environmental Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design and Animation Design. SZU is a full-time, comprehensive university accredited by the State Council of the People's Republic of China.

Funded by the Shenzhen local government, SZU was founded in 1983 and undertook its first enrollment the very same year at what is aptly referred to as "Shenzhen Speed."

Located on the picturesque coastline of Shenzhen Bay in South China, SZU's campus boasts its own lake, rolling hills covered with lychee trees, and an abundance of green space and sculpture gardens.

The school has 50 teachers, who are distinguished scholars and artists with academic expertise and rich teaching experience. SZU, with Shenzhen Municipal Cultural Bureau, has recently built an Art and Design Research Center which is helping to propel the school forward as a design research institution.

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This exhibit was made possible at the University of North Carolina at Asheville through the partnership of many departments and people.

Lei Han, Assistant Professor in Multimedia/Arts and Sciences, made initial contact with SZU, spent time working with the faculty in the School of Art and Design on this project, translated the text accompanying the exhibit, and spearheaded countless other details.

The Department of Art and Design at SZU demonstrated tremendous interest and willingness to exhibit their students work at UNC Asheville. They also graciously shipped us the posters, garments, and animations free of charge.

The UNC Asheville Art Department’s student organization, Art Front prepared the gallery for exhibition and helped to install the exhibit.

The UNC Asheville Study Abroad/Study Away Program partnered and promoted the exhibit as a compliment to the 2008 Study Abroad Fair.

UNC Asheville Department of Multimedia Arts and Sciences Loaned the computer and display in the exhibit.

UNC Asheville Office of Cultural & Special Events coordinated the exhibit.

The UNC Asheville Highsmith Union Gallery Committee consulted on this exhibit, and the Committee continually oversees the operation and scheduling of the Highsmith Union Gallery.

FedEx Kinko's Office & Print Center of Asheville donated full printing costs for promotional posters, and partial costs for exhibition text.

Troy Lehman, UNC Asheville Multimedia Arts and Sciences student, designed promotional poster and postcard

John Hill, local woodturning artist, created the hanging system for the posters.