1a Space
Hong Kong Learn more about what's on at 1a Space and the artists shaping its programme.1a space is an independent, non-profit contemporary visual art organisation founded in 1998 by a collective of Hong Kong art workers. It first opened in an old government warehouse on Oil Street—helping spark Hong Kong’s first artists’ village—before relocating in 2001 to its current base at Cattle Depot Artist Village in To Kwa Wan.
From a converted cattle-slaughterhouse complex shared with other artist-run initiatives, 1a space presents exhibitions, talks, performances and community projects that prioritise experimentation and critical reflection. The organisation has staged more than 130 exhibitions and cultural initiatives, often foregrounding Hong Kong artists and urban issues while remaining plugged into regional and international networks. It has presented shows that range from early experiments in video and installation to projects such as the garden-like environment If there is a garden, where would I be? (24 August–14 September 2025), a collaboration between Au Hoi-lam and Chang Hoi-wood that transformed the gallery into a space for reflection on self and place.
In 2026, 1a space was announced as a Cultural Partner of Art Basel Hong Kong, presenting Never will there be again (27–29 March 2026, preview 25–26 March) by Au Hoi Lam and Chang Hoi Wood at its booth on Level 1 Concourse of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Constructed from remnants of their earlier project If there is a garden, where would I be?, the installation uses eaves, bamboo, wood, stone, text fragments and microscopic imagery to create a temporary resting place amid the intensity of the fair, extending 1a space’s interest in poetic, site-responsive work into the Art Basel context.
Visiting Information
1a space is located at Unit 14, Cattle Depot Artist Village, 63 Ma Tau Kok Road, To Kwa Wan, Kowloon. Opening hours typically follow exhibition schedules; visitors should check 1a space’s website or social channels for current hours, programme details and information on parallel projects at Cattle Depot and Art Basel Hong Kong.
1a Space FAQs
What is 1a space?
1a space is an independent, non-profit contemporary visual art organisation and exhibition venue in Hong Kong, founded in 1998 by a group of local art workers. It is known as one of the city’s oldest experimental art spaces, supporting critical and process-driven practices.
Where is 1a space located?
The space is based at Unit 14, Cattle Depot Artist Village, 63 Ma Tau Kok Road, To Kwa Wan, Kowloon. The former red-brick slaughterhouse complex is now a cluster of artist studios and small arts organisations, reachable by bus or taxi from Kowloon City and Hung Hom.
What is 1a space doing for Art Basel Hong Kong 2026?
As a Cultural Partner of Art Basel Hong Kong 2026, 1a space is presenting the duo project Never will there be again by Au Hoi Lam and Chang Hoi Wood at its booth on Level 1 Concourse of the HKCEC (preview 25–26 March; public days 27–29 March 2026). It also offers guided tours for school groups, connecting fair visitors with Hong Kong art from an independent-space perspective.
Who are the artists behind 1a space?1a space was founded in 1998 by Hong Kong artists and cultural workers including Choi Yan-chi, Howard Chan and Hiram To, who established it as an independent, non-profit platform for experimental contemporary art.
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