Zhang Xiaochuan's Red Chair is part of the display on show in Italy. Provided to China Daily

The fine line of sino design

Hardly any Chinese luxury brands could claim space in the pages of Vogue magazine or on the shelves of top-tier retailers just a few years ago. But times - and the country's creative spirit - are changing. Now, Chinese designs are gracing the glossies and boutique displays, and will take center stage at the China New Design exhibition now under way at the Milan Triennale Design Museum, and the Turin Palace Museum (Palazzo Chiablese) until September.

The show, which is part of the 2011 Year of China in Italy, displays 134 works by 29 of China's most dynamic new generation designers. The creations come from mavericks in the country's publishing, graphic design, fashion, multimedia and public space and interior design spheres.

"It offers the Italian public an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in Chinese design and the new generation of Chinese designers, who are leading the way toward more innovative design," says exhibition founder Cui Qiao.

Chen Nan