The new Zendai Museum of Modern Art marks several firsts for Shanghai.  It is the first art museum in the rapidly developing Pudong district, as well as the city's first completely private art museum.  

Funding comes entirely from the Zheng Da Property Group, one of the biggest developers in Pudong.  The firm's director, Dai Ahitong, is a longtime supporter of Chinese contemporary art, and company is a regular co-sponsor of events  like the Shanghai biennale.

Dai conceived the idea of the museum during a trip to Europe.  He was so impressed at how art interacts with regular people and commerce there.  The Zendai had its first event in March, a festival of Chinese folk and electric music held in the mall's outdoor plaza.