Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts

Have you ever wondered what whispers through the halls of an art academy? Here at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts (GAFA), the stories are as vibrant as the canvases within. Established in 1953, not here in Guangzhou but in Wuchang, Hubei Province, the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts started as the Central South China Fine Arts School. This school was a melting pot of creativity, formed from the South China Literature & Arts College, the Central South China Literature & Arts Institute, and the Fine Arts Department of Guangxi Art Institute. Imagine the energy of these combined institutions. The academy moved to Guangzhou in 1958 and adopted its current name. It’s remarkable to think that just a few years later, in 1969, GAFA briefly merged with other institutions to become the Guangdong People’s Academy of Arts, before returning to its original form in 1978. The Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts holds a significant place in Chinese art education. It’s the only higher education fine arts institution in Guangdong Province and even South China. It’s also one of the eight major fine arts academies in the entire country. GAFA has grown significantly since its early days. It now boasts three campuses: Changgang, University Town, and Foshan. Nearly 10,000 students roam these halls, studying everything from painting and sculpture to design and art history. The library at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts is a treasure trove. It holds a collection of over 400,000 books and 157,000 electronic books. But it’s more than just books. It also houses a remarkable collection of over 10,000 rare works of art, some dating back to the Tang Dynasty. These works provide invaluable inspiration to the budding artists who study here. Sadly, the academy has also seen controversy. In 2015, the chief librarian was charged with replacing 143 of the academy’s treasured artworks with his forgeries. He then auctioned off 125 of these forgeries, pocketing a staggering 34 million yuan. It’s a stark reminder that even in the world of art, there are shadows. But the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts continues to thrive. It’s a testament to the enduring power of art and the dedication of the students and faculty who call this place home. As you stand here, imagine the countless works of art that have been created within these walls. Perhaps the next generation of great Chinese artists are just beginning their journey inside.