Chinese Paper Umbrella brings tradition and modernity to the Venice Biennale

Paper umbrellas have deep roots in Chinese culture, symbolizing both shelter and celebration. For centuries, these umbrellas were crafted from bamboo and oiled paper, often hand-painted with intricate designs of flowers and birds. They were used in weddings, parades, and even in the quiet moments of daily life, offering not just protection from rain or sun, but also a sense of artistry and ritual. MAD Architects, celebrated for their futuristic and poetic approach to architecture, have taken this humble, beloved object and reimagined it for the modern era. Their “Chinese Paper Umbrella” is more than a nod to tradition: it’s an invitation to see the familiar with fresh eyes and to experience a new kind of shelter that bridges past and future.

Situated in the garden of the China Pavilion at the 2025 Venice Biennale, the installation transforms a simple outdoor space into a place of sensory discovery and quiet reflection. The umbrella is crafted from Xuan paper, a material revered in Chinese calligraphy for its soft texture and absorbency. The paper is treated with layers of tung oil, which gives it water resistance and an elegant, translucent quality, making it both practical and beautiful for the Venetian climate.

Designer: MAD Architects

This structure is not just about providing shade; it’s about creating an intimate, inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to pause and experience the interplay of light, shadow, and air beneath the canopy. The umbrella’s lightness and airy contours echo the gentle elegance of its traditional inspiration, while its scale and setting make it feel welcoming and contemporary. MAD’s design goes beyond the static. The Chinese Paper Umbrella features a built-in misting system at its apex, which automatically activates to cool the space when temperatures rise. This thoughtful addition ensures comfort for visitors and elevates the experience, making the umbrella not just a visual delight but also a responsive, almost living element within the garden. Throughout the day, the translucent canopy filters daylight, casting shifting patterns and creating a dynamic, immersive environment.

As part of the China Pavilion’s broader exhibition for the Biennale, the installation fits seamlessly into themes of cultural dialogue, innovation, and the blending of nature with human creativity. It’s a perfect example of how traditional motifs can be reinterpreted in contemporary forms, offering both a sense of nostalgia and a vision for the future. The “Chinese Paper Umbrella” will remain on view at the Venice Biennale’s China Pavilion garden through November 23, 2025. It stands as a gentle reminder that the most meaningful designs are those that honor the past while embracing new possibilities.

With this project, MAD Architects have created a space that is both timeless and refreshingly modern—a haven where tradition and imagination meet, and where every visitor is invited to linger under its graceful canopy. For design lovers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates cultural artistry, this installation is a must-see highlight of the Venice Biennale—one that captures the enduring spirit and innovative future of Chinese craft.

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