“Boomerang” might spring to mind upon your first glance at CAFA Museum. This unique shape is just one of the many architectural features designed by Arata Isozaki. He is a noted Japanese architect.
Welcome to the CAFA Museum. It is located on the campus of the Central Academy of Fine Arts. This museum is more than just a building. It is a gateway to understanding Chinese modern art.
The CAFA Museum’s history began as the Central Academy of Fine Arts Gallery. It was located on the old CAFA site. This was Beijing’s Wangfujing area. Architect Zhang Kaiji designed that first gallery. It was China’s first specialized art museum after the People’s Republic of China was established. The name changed to CAFA Art Museum in 1998.
In October 2008, the new CAFA Museum opened. Isozaki’s design incorporates grey-green stone plates. These plates match the Central Academy of Fine Arts campus. The museum stands six levels high. Four levels are above ground. Two are below. The total floor area is 14,777 square meters.
Let’s step inside CAFA Museum. Notice the large glass walls at the entrance. They provide transparency and meet lighting needs. The first floor is a public space. It has a café and a multi-functional room. There is also an auditorium. It can accommodate 380 people.
The second floor is unique. It’s a closed space lit by artificial light. This protects the artwork from sun damage. Erco lights from Germany illuminate the space. Granite flooring minimizes light reflections. Glass display cases house artistic treasures.
Ascend to the third floor of CAFA Museum. The ceiling soars to 11 meters. The vast interior space is free of pillars. Natural light floods the area. This combines with the fourth-floor space. These halls can accommodate artworks of various sizes.
The two floors below ground house essential functions. You’ll find offices and storage. Restoration rooms are also located here.
CAFA Museum achieved a milestone in 2010. It was named in the first list of Key National Museums. The current director, Zhang Zikang, continues a legacy. Past directors include Dong Xiwen and Pan Gongkai.
The Central Academy of Fine Arts is prestigious. The Manila Bulletin calls it China’s most renowned art academy. The school drew media attention during the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. Students protested by creating the Goddess of Democracy statue.
The CAFA Museum houses a collection of 13,000 works. These works cover various genres and styles. They include paintings, oil paintings and sculptures. There is also folk art. The museum opened in October 2008, marking the University’s 90th anniversary.
As you leave the CAFA Museum, remember its significance. It preserves art. It also fosters artistic development. The CAFA Museum remains a vital landmark. It reflects China’s rich artistic heritage.