Designer masks raise funds to help Italy's fight against pandemic

Nearly 40 sets of masks designed by 10 Chinese artists were recently unveiled at the Shanghai Tower, the world's second tallest building, as part of an event to raise funds to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy.

The event, jointly held by the Rong Family's Culture Fund Donation of Shanghai Cultural Development Foundation and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, was held on May 20 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Sino-Italian diplomatic relations.

The masks, some of which feature elements of traditional Chinese culture, were worn by models on the catwalk before being auctioned off.

The 120,000 euros ($130,569) that was raised during the event and 40,000 masks were donated to help fight the pandemic in Italy, according to the Rong Family's Culture Fund Donation.