Organized by the museum, the Chinese Artists' Association and the Shanghai Artists' Association, the show is expected to present creative ideas for decorating a home.

So far, students and teachers from art academies in 17 countries and regions have registered to join the exhibition, museum officials said yesterday.

"The exhibit is totally different from those regular shows, such as paintings or contemporary art exhibits at our museum," said Fang Zengxian, the museum's curator. "We expect a huge number of visitors due to the booming property market in Shanghai."

The show will cover designs for interior space, furnishings, finery and ornaments, including blueprints and full-sized models, according to the museum.

"We requested the candidates reflect an aesthetic taste of combining both China's tradition and the modern concepts," said the museum curator.

(eastday.com March 28, 2003)