"The Celestial City: Newport and China" explores China’s deep influence on Newport from the 18th century through the Gilded Age (1865-1915) when the city emerged as America’s premier summer playground and the fall of China’s last imperial dynasty transformed the ancient nation.
On display are diverse treasures of Chinese art collected by Newport merchants, historic photographs of Newport’s early Chinese community, and the writings and heirlooms of Chinese suffragists who helped to launch the fight for women’s rights in Newport and the United States.
Contemporary artworks by Yu-Wen Wu and Jennifer Ling Datchuk highlight the contributions of many different people of Chinese heritage, including artists, merchants, immigrant entrepreneurs, and women activists, who shaped all aspects of life in Newport. Datchuk illuminates the contributions of many different people of Chinese heritage, including artists, merchants, immigrant entrepreneurs, and women activists, who shaped all aspects of life in Newport.
On view at Rosecliff Mansion through February 11, 2024.