Suzhou certainly has an abundance of history or culture, but you may be forgiven for thinking that it lacks a contemporary art scene of its own. Just 83 km west of Shanghai, it would make sense that local artists simply packed their bags and opted for the much more vibrant and flourishing art scene there. However, while art may not be the first thing to pop into your head when thinking of Suzhou, what many people don’t know is that since 2007 Suzhou has begun developing a small contemporary art community of its own – Jiushenggang Art District (九盛港艺术区).

Located at Jiushenggang Lu in the Wuzhong District of Suzhou, Jiushenggang has nestled itself across the road from True Color Museum (本色当代艺术馆), the largest private investment museum in Suzhou. More than thirty artists’ studios call Jiushenggang home, and several galleries and design studios have also moved into the district. The area was set up with the aim of putting Suzhou on China’s art map and at the same time to nurture and develop the local art scene by offering local artists a space for exchanging artistic ideas and displaying their works. Although the area is still small when compared to influential art districts like 798 in Beijing, it has nonetheless been active in hosting art related events and bringing together artists, collectors and art fans.

Jiushenggang is still in its infant stage and has yet to develop and become more active with exhibitions and events. However, with an otherwise lack of one concentrated art area, Jiushenggang still makes for a welcome edition to the city and certainly an interesting browse, especially when coupled with a trip to the nearby True Color Museum. True Color is one of Suzhou’s main contemporary art galleries. The non-profit organization, regularly hosts art talks and art related exhibitions and events, covering anything from oil paintings, sculptures and behavioral art to music and photography. It’s only been open to the public since 2008 but there’s no doubt that both True Color Museum and Jiushengang Art District will mutually enhance each others profile and grow to become another respected and flourishing art district in mainland China.

Jiushenggang Art District 九盛港艺术区View In Map
Add: 765 Jiushenggang Lu, Guogang Jie, Wuzhong District, Suzhou
地址：苏州市吴中区郭巷街道九盛港路765号（苏州本色当代美术馆）
Tel: 0512 6908 8098
Website: www.9sheng-art.com

True Color Museum 本色美术馆 View In Map
Add: 219 Tongda Lu, Wuzhong District, Suzhou
地址：苏州市吴中区通达路219号本色美术馆
Tel: 0512 6596 8890

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