Beijing International Design Week might be over but that doesn’t mean you can’t head out and appreciate the various exhibitions, take photos and make a day out of having fun in one of the numerous art zones in Beijing. Apart from the well known 798 and Caochangdi, you’ll find that there are lesser known art zones that are full of galleries and art work also not to mention bespoke cafes and restaurants. More after the jump.
9 Art Garden
Located in the Wangjing area near the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA), this art zone was an old wine factory conversion. The area has more of academia feel to it as most people you are likely to meet are students, professors, and scholars. The park was designed by the Beijing Yingcheng Technology & Trade Development. International and domestic exhibitions have been held for several years at the location.
Zhoukoudian International Art Zone
This is located in Fangshan district and might be a bit of a out of the way to get to. It was converted from an old shirt factory and covers a massive 4 hectares. There are studios, galleries, offices, and more to get a day out the area. There’s a younger, hipster style of art work and people you are likely to encounter.
22 International Art Plaza
Located in near the East Third Ring Road, this plaza was built and designed to introduce China’s 22nd architectural style that house 100 galleries and cultural organizations. There are also houses, studios, and auction houses.
Songzhuang Art Colony
Located in Tongzhou in the Songzhuang town, this art zone is home to over 1,000 artists. The area was initially for avant-grande artists but now hosts academics, traditional, new media, and more artists. This area also has its own culture and art festival that’s held at the end of September.
Source: China Daily. Photo: Clemence Jiang
