Originally a huge, sprawling, electronics factory complex the 798 North China Wireless Electronic Equipment United Factory was built by East German engineers in the Bauhaus style in 1952. Over the last 5 years, the long-abandoned factory complex in the Dashanzi district of north east Beijing has become the centre of the city's vibrant contemporary art scene.Scores of galleries and artists studios are scattered throughout the old factory buildings and provide a fitting backdrop to a wide range of Beijing art. The setting is dramatic and the buildings impressive - often more interesting than the pieces being displayed within them. In addition to the galleries and studios a number of art bookshops, cafes and restaurants help make 798 a great place to wander around for a day.
Chinese contemporary art is highly fashionable right now with pieces fetching record prices at auctions worldwide. But don't expect to find any bargains at 798 - the setting maybe shabby-chic but the prices are definitely Mayfair. 
Art is very much regarded as an investment in China with many pieces going straight to auction without ever having appeared in a gallery or been previously sold and consequently prices have climbed quickly.Time Out Beijing are sponsoring an 'affordable art fair' this week. We went on the second morning and most of the items had already been sold.
The Chinese love to copy a successful formula and this extends to their art, with the styles of the best known and most successful Chinese artists being widely imitated.
So if you can't spring the two mill for a genuine Zhang Xiaogang just get an imitation from a cheaper artist.
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