Chinese Arts Centre is the international agency for the development and promotion of contemporary Chinese artists. Established in 1986, Chinese Arts Centre aims to develop an infrastructure that allows Chinese arts to flourish. The main aim of our work is to raise the profile of Chinese artists from around the world. Our work covers many areas including exhibitions, residencies, artist support schemes, publications, agency work, advocacy, consultancy, commissions, festivals, tours and collaborations.

Chinese Arts Centre is based in Manchester, the city with the second largest Chinese community in the UK, and the organisation is part of the region’s rich Chinese heritage. As a vibrant artistic city, Manchester is home to a busy population of artists and creators and Chinese Arts Centre is proud to be part of the area’s thriving contemporary arts scene.

Opened in 2003 following an Arts Council England Lottery Grant, Chinese Arts Centre’s RIBA award winning building contains a gallery, live/work residency studio, tea house, shop, resource area and corporate hire facility. The main gallery hosts a challenging and innovative exhibition programme showcasing the very best of contemporary Chinese art. The unique ‘Breathe’ residency project space provides resident artists with a living area, studio and exhibition space.

Opening hours:
Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm  Closed on Sun & Mon & Bank Holidays