China in Maps: 500 Years of Evolving Images
HKUST Library, Hong Kong, 2023-2024, 568 Sqm
Studio Cassells worked closely with the curatorial and research teams at HKUST to produce ‘China in Maps: 500 Years of Evolving Images’. The year-long exhibition, open to students and the public, sits over two floors in the university library and showcases a significant collection of Western printed maps of China spanning the 16th to 19th centuries. The exhibition highlights how the land and geography of China has been portrayed in different ways by European and Chinese mapmakers through changing time periods.
Studio Cassells’ scope included, concept design, developed and detailed design of the exhibition, exhibition graphics, and quality checking onsite installation. The design balances impactful exhibits drawing visitors into the space, with functional library solutions. The exhibition has a range of exhibits and spaces including a large walk-in globe, a contemplation area for quiet study, original maps from small to very large in temperature controlled display cases, open cabinets with touchable items, closed cases and audio and video content.
