Summer Art Journey: China Oil Painting Academy
🌿 「🎨A Poetic Dwelling of Light and Shadow | A Summer Guide to the China Oil Painting Academy」 🌿
Introduction to the Oil Painting Academy
The China Oil Painting Academy, located at No. 1704, Gaobeidian Cultural and Art New Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, is a palace of art integrating oil painting creation, research, teaching, and exhibition. The buildings in the academy are mainly in a minimalist white style, with pointed churches and red brick buildings interwoven. The collision of light, shadow, and geometric lines creates a pure aesthetic, earning it the reputation of an "urban art utopia."
✨ Highlights
🎨White Pointed Church
This landmark building, with its pure white spire and arched porch, provides an excellent backdrop for photography. It is recommended to use the soft light of early morning or dusk to capture backlit silhouettes.
Tip: The interior of the church is not open, but the external stairs, the cross square, and the N-shaped arch are open for creative exploration.
🎨Red Brick Walls and Staggered Stairs
The red brick buildings are full of industrial and retro vibes. The corners of the stairs and the depth of the porch are suitable for taking artistic portraits or close-ups of still life.
🎨Oil Painting Exhibition Hall
The three-story exhibition hall displays a variety of oil paintings in different styles. The exhibition design is full of spatial aesthetics, and the stairs and light-filled corridors themselves are also art installations.
🎨Hidden Corners
The pond reflections, the cafe terrace, and the Canaan Holy Land sculpture area are suitable for quiet creation away from the crowds.
🚶♀️ Recommended Route (Half-Day Tour)
09:00-10:30 Photography at the church and red brick area (fewer people, soft light)
11:00-12:30 Visit the exhibition hall and experience the artistic atmosphere
13:00-14:00 Take a break at the cafe. Light-colored drinks complement the architecture.
15:00-17:00 Golden hour for photography, capture the twilight of the pond and red brick walls
👗 Summer Outfit Guide
Color: Light colors (off-white, light blue) or low-saturation colors (Morandi colors) harmonize better with the architecture.
Material: Light fabrics such as cotton, linen, and chiffon, paired with straw bags or wide-brimmed hats, add an artistic touch.
Details: Avoid complex prints. Simple tailored dresses or wide-leg pants + shirt combinations look more sophisticated.
⚠️ Important Notes
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-17:00 (closed on Mondays), outdoor areas are open all day.
Documents and fees: Free admission, ID card required for registration; parking is available in the courtyard (fee applies).
Photography etiquette: Wedding photography teams have priority in using the church area. It is recommended to avoid peak hours or choose alternative shooting locations.
Sunscreen and supplies: The summer sun is strong, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Drinks are available at the cafe in the courtyard.
Quiet viewing: Keep your voice down in the exhibition hall and do not use flash photography.
📸 Take this guide and measure the poetry of art with your lens and footsteps!