Nestled in the vibrant city of Chongqing, 501 Art Base stands as the city’s very first “artist village,” a haven for art enthusiasts and a testament to the fusion of contemporary art, history, and urban life. Established in 1950, the base, boasting approximately 10,000 square meters of space, was formerly a strategic logistics warehouse, bearing some resemblance to Beijing’s renowned 798 Art District. However, in 2006, a significant transformation began when Huage Company took over as the management organization, overseeing the redevelopment, tenant recruitment, brand promotion, and overall administration of 501 Art Base. In October of that same year, the base opened its doors to the public, marking the birth of a unique cultural hub.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of 501 Art Base
- Attractions near 501 Art Base
- Other Art Museums in Chongqing
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of 501 Art Base
- Attractions near 501 Art Base
- Other Art Museums in Chongqing
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
The 501 Art Base is located in the Huangjueping area of Jiulongpo District in Chongqing, China. Its exact address is 5-15 Huangjueping Zheng Street, which is situated to the east of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (四川美术学院).
Tourists can take bus 223, 233, 441, 823, or 3265, get off at Huangjueping Stop (黄桷坪站), and walk about 200 meters to the south to reach the base.
Highlights of 501 Art Base
Creative Industry Base
501 Art Base is strategically located opposite the prestigious Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, making it an attractive destination for aspiring artists. Thanks to its favorable rent policies, over 70 emerging and mid-career artists from the institute have established their studios within the base. These artists cover a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including oil painting, traditional Chinese painting, sculpture, and fashion design. The base also features a non-profit contemporary art museum and an artistic salon, creating a dynamic ecosystem for artistic expression.
This remarkable cultural hub has been recognized as a “Chongqing Creative Industry Base,” and its influence has steadily extended beyond Chongqing to the rest of China. Artists and art institutions from the United Kingdom, Canada, Sweden, Singapore, and other countries have visited 501 Art Base for research, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Some foreign artists have chosen to reside at the base, adding an international dimension to the local art scene. With open artist studios, art bars, and other creative spaces, 501 Art Base exudes the essence of an “Soho-style art district” with a global appeal.
Organic Fusion
What truly sets 501 Art Base apart is the organic fusion of contemporary art with the historical context and the urban lifestyle of Chongqing. This unique synergy has allowed “501” to evolve into a vibrant, groundbreaking model of contemporary Chinese art and urban living, capturing the hearts of professionals and the general public alike with an unprecedented magnetism.
As you walk through the streets of 501 Art Base, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where the past meets the present, and where creativity knows no bounds. Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or simply looking to explore and experience the artistic tapestry of Chongqing, 501 Art Base promises an unforgettable journey. It is a place where tradition and innovation coexist, where history whispers its secrets, and where artists breathe life into their dreams. In 501 Art Base, you’ll discover a resplendent blend of art, culture, and history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking inspiration and the soul-stirring magic of contemporary Chinese art.
