In “The Wrinkles of the City: Shanghai,” JR continues his celebrated global project, delving into yet another metropolis. This time, the accomplished French photographer directs his lens towards the resilient citizens of Shanghai, examining their personal growth in tandem with the transformation of their city.

Within the pages of “Wrinkles of the City: Shanghai,” we encounter the elderly, who generously share their tales of witnessing their beloved city undergo profound changes, marred by cultural, political, and economic shifts. Today, the weathered faces of JR’s subjects leave an indelible mark upon the city’s walls as he masterfully merges portraiture with public art. These individuals serve as living repositories of their city’s memory, acting as the vital link between the older and newer generations.
One of these remarkable citizens, Li Lei, pens a heartfelt message to JR at the outset of the book, stating, “JR, when you affix monumental photographs in our streets, you don’t just paste images; you embed them within a community. The significance of these images transcends the personal—it forces observers to confront reality and reflect upon it.”
The coffee table book, produced in a large and unique square format, is bilingual (English and Chinese) and includes an introduction to Magda Danysz’s project, an overview of the history of Shanghai, and a letter from the director of the Shanghai Art Museum addressed to JR.

The book features an extensive collection of some of the artist’s most famous works including his 17-painting installation at the Colette Gallery in Paris, the iconic decorations of building facades in downtown Manhattan and Project Brave, a moving 9/11 memorial at the World Trade Centre.  Complete with an in-depth introduction and biography with contributions from several contemporaries, the book presents a fascinating journey into the world of WK.

“WK is one of the true original artists to push the urban art form and inspire a generation to take it to the next level.” – Patrick McNeil