Chinese Arts Centre

Manchester’s hidden gem, Chinese Arts Centre receives a prestigious RIBA Award for design excellence in architecture.Chinese Arts Centre opened its doors in November 2003 and has since broken all of its audience projections demonstrating that it is not going to be a secret for much longer!Housed in the historic old Fish-market buildings in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Manchester based OMI architects have managed to create a unique building combining striking contemporary architecture with the use of rich woods and antiques imported from China.Chief Executive Officer Sarah Champion said

“We decided not to compromise on Chinese Arts Centre, everything had to be the highest quality and the most striking design. We have commissioned some of the most exciting Chinese artists in the world to make integral pieces and worked with access groups to make sure the resulting Centre was open to everyone. Chinese Arts Centre needed to be of this standard to create an appropriate environment for the innovative artworks we show. It is fantastic that these high standards have been recognised and we hope more people will come and enjoy what the gallery has to offer.” 

Chinese Arts Centre was funded by a £2.2 million Lottery grant from Arts Council EnglandTop image: main gallery. Bottom image: residency studio.Photographs by Dennis GilbertA full selection of images is available on request