Until May 21, Prada’s historic residence in Shanghai, Rong Zhai, is hosting an exhibition on neurodegenerative diseases titled ‘Human Brains: Preserving the Brain.’
It is a collaboration with 13 international neuroscience institutes: Each organized a section that focuses on the physiological progression of diseases like Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis, as well as the search for cures.
The Prada Foundation, which runs the exhibit, is an institute focused on contemporary art and culture. Miuccia Prada, the head designer of the Prada fashion brand, co-chairs it.
“[The exhibit is] guided by a strong interest in understanding the human brain, the complexity of its functions and its centrality in human history,” wrote the Prada Foundation on its website.
This is the second showing of the exhibit — the first was in Milan last fall. Rong Zhai will also host a scientific conference related to the exhibit on April 20.
A Western-style, three-story house built in the late Qing dynasty, Rong Zhai was restored by Prada between 2011 and 2017.
The house and its surrounding garden are noted for their cultural heritage and combination of baroque and traditional Chinese styles.
Since the restoration was completed, Prada Rong Zhai has regularly hosted exhibits and other events, including runway shows.
Rong Zhai is part of the Prada Foundation’s ongoing effort to preserve historic architecture around the world.