The name “RONG LU” is a deliberate play on the Chinese term for ‘melting pot’, symbolising the synthesis of diverse cultural influences while also paying homage to the name of its founder, Luning. It is conceived as an independent cultural space that integrates historical architecture, design collections, and lifestyle aesthetics through contemporary art exhibitions, cross-border cultural dialogues, and the dissemination of aesthetic and curatorial insights.

Situated on Changle Road in Shanghai, RONG LU occupies a historically significant building originally commissioned by Li Hongzhang, a prominent official of the late Qing Dynasty, as a residence for his parents. The structure later served as a private club and the residence of Rong Desheng, a distinguished flour magnate in Shanghai. Embedded within the local community, RONG LU differentiates itself from the traditional ‘white cube’ gallery model through a curatorial philosophy that prioritises accessibility and cultural interconnection. Adopting a concept similar to that of a ‘fashion showroom’, RONG LU reimagines the role of the ‘art buyer.’ Much like a boutique or multi-brand collection store, RONG LU curates artworks based on personal taste and aesthetics, selecting pieces by internationally recognised artists. These curated collections transcend temporal and spatial cultural boundaries and are presented in a seasonal format, offering a refined and thoughtfully chosen selection of works.

The exhibition space of RONG LU functions as a conceptual ‘melting pot’, wherein diverse creative narratives and artistic media are presented in a manner that allows for organic coexistence and interaction. This design enables collectors and visitors to engage with the artworks from a direct, first-person perspective, fostering an immersive and contemplative experience within a salon-like environment. The intentional integration of interior design with the exhibition space facilitates the permeation of art into everyday life, offering a refined aesthetic experience.

RONG LU extends beyond its role as an exhibition space to serve as the central hub and content incubator for Luning’s media ventures in Shanghai. Utilising the expansive reach of social media, traditional media outlets, and strategic alliances with collectors and brands, RONG LU provides comprehensive promotional support – both online and offline – for galleries, artists, and designers. Through this model, RONG LU aims to cultivate a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, contributing to the enrichment of the global art discourse while remaining rooted in the local cultural context.