The Centre Pompidou in Paris is set to unveil “MAD X,” a permanent collection exhibition of MAD Architects’ works on April 9th. The exhibition features 10 architectural models from MAD, which were acquired by the Centre Pompidou in 2018. The title, “MAD X,” holds a double meaning, referring to the Roman numeral 10 for the 10 models in the exhibition, and the unknown, symbolized by the letter “X”.
As Ma Yansong explains, “The exhibition’s title “MAD X” expresses a desire for the unknown, which is more important than simply summarizing the past. This collection exhibition is a record of MAD’s work process and evolution of thought over the past decade and a half.”
The 10 projects showcased in the exhibition include completed urban spaces and ongoing construction projects. They reflect MAD’s design philosophy rooted in the dialogue between architecture and nature, originating from the East. They are a testament to MAD’s “crazy” and emotional architectural practice, surpassing reality and inspiring enthusiasm and imagination for the future of architecture.
The models represent various building types, including MAD’s first overseas project, the “Absolute World”, a skyscraper complex in Mississauga, Canada. Also featured are the “Chaoyang Park Plaza” in Beijing, which incorporates the landscape elements of old Beijing into the new city, and the “Four-Leaf Clover House” in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, a conversion of a traditional Japanese home into a kindergarten. Other projects include the “Lucas Museum of Narrative Art” in Chicago, a world-class museum established by George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, and the “UNIC” apartment project in Paris, MAD’s first residential project in Europe, which is scheduled for completion this year.
The exhibition “MAD X” is a testament to the power and vision of MAD Architects, showcasing their commitment to design excellence and their unique perspective on the relationship between architecture and the natural world. The exhibition will be on display at the Centre Pompidou, located on the 4th floor, Room 28, until April 1st, 2020.
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