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798 Art District - Urban chic emerges in China

Published:Sunday | June 16, 2013 | 12:00 AM
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Chinese girls pose with a 3D painting that shows former Chinese leader Mao Zedong and former United States President Abraham Lincoln popping up on banknotes at the 798 Art District in Beijing on June 13. - AP
A Chinese model is helped by assistants to pose for a photographer during a fashion shoot at an art deco display at the 798 Art District in Beijing on June 13.
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The 798 Art District is a well-known art and cultural centre northeast of central Beijing. The art centre emerged from dilapidated industrial factories. These state-owned factories were initially involved in the production of electronics.

However, in 2002, it was taken over and revamped by artists and used as studios and galleries. Today, it also boasts restaurants and bars as well as design companies.

According to 798space.com, "It became a 'Soho-esque' area of international character, replete with 'loft living', attracting attention from all around. Bringing together contemporary art, architecture, and culture with a historically interesting location and an urban lifestyle."