While OCAT is named after the Overseas Chinese Town in which it is located, the core mission of OCAT is to integrate resources across the world for contemporary Chinese art, and to promote exchanges and interactions between China and the world in this respect. It aims, through exhibitions, forums and artist-in-residence programs, to construct an institution that is about Chinese art but maintains an international vision and professionalism. It is committed to functioning as a hub, a supply centre and a departure point for contemporary Chinese art. Such ideas were in its conception at the very outset and the concept of being an ‘international terminal’ for contemporary Chinese art was made evident in its name.
OCAT is dedicated to producing projects and events pivoted on visual art, but will also include live arts, music performances, film, video and multimedia presentations. Further, in line with its mission to support and develop the leading edge of contemporary art practice amongst China’s most outstanding and most promising artists, OCAT will serve as a dynamic platform upon which resources and artists from across the world are brought together, and exchanges between China and the world at all levels are enabled.