róng design library residency programme [shanghai]

In 2015, Róng Design Library launched an annual ‘Róng Design Library Residency Programme’ with the aim of inviting designers from different countries and regions to come to mainland China for a period of time and have their creative ideas collide with traditional Chinese handicrafts and materials from different fields. Through on-site investigation, design creation, sample making, and production, the designers complete a piece (or a set) of works.

The Swiss Arts Council Pro Helvetia, with its Liaison Office in Shanghai, joined the project as a co-initiator in 2019. Its aim is to foster a dynamic environment that bridges traditional Chinese crafts and contemporary Swiss design, inviting mutual inspiration. Residents will engage with local artisans and gain fresh perspectives. This one-month residency will take place between March 2025 and December 2025 depending on the candidates’ and the host’s availability.

Pro Helvetia Shanghai supports two to four Swiss designers to become Róng Design Library’s residents for the year 2026. The candidate designers will be able to research and study Chinese traditional handicrafts and materials (bamboo, silk, mud, copper, paper, etc.), and combine the learnt techniques with their own practice.