Chinese artist Zhu Wei's China China, which has been on loan to the CWE from the Gateway Foundation, will be relocated to Lambert-St. Louis Airport before the July opening of the newly renovated Terminal 1 ticketing level lounge.
According to Jeff Lea, Public Relations Manager for Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, The St. Louis Airport Commission formally approved an agreement to accept the loan of China China, after it was endorsed by a seven-member Arts Advisory Committee who evaluate all major art installations and exhibitions for the Lambert Arts and Culture Program. The sculpture will be on loan for 10 years with extension options. When the Terminal 1 ticketing level lounge opens in July, it will also include a live plant wall, a water feature and new art display cases.
Unofficial word is that the Gateway Foundation decided China China was no longer displayed to its best advantage in its current location at 4656 Maryland Avenue. Sidewalk seating is good for Starbucks, not so great for viewing Zhu Wei's 6' tall bronze sculpture.
I know I am not alone when I say I will really miss China China. This is my favorite shot of the sculpture decked out in holiday scarves by Wade and Bea Crowder when their holiday shop popped-up in that spot in 2012. I think artist Zhu Wei would approve, don't you?
There guys are part of our CWE family!
Nnnnnoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo. Devastated.
First Stan the man, now this one. It is a loss for our streetscape to be sure.
WHAT??? I LOVE that sculpture, although it certainly was engulfed by tables and chairs . I’ll miss it. Glad I might still be able to visit it at the airport, though.