Meridian Space, Meishuguan's Creative Factory

Looking for a place to crack open the latest Žižek but yearning for zero street side madness? Maybe you are looking for that perfect space to organize something like Beijing's first and only pantomimed cooking class or other performative art endeavor. Consider Meridian Space, Meishuguan's highly anticipated hub for Beijing creatives, located in the redeveloped 77 C&C Park.

À la 798 Art District, the complex consists of a somewhat desolate group of industrial spaces. Evidence of the fact that Meridian Space formerly housed a printing press is littered around the compound.

Their latte (RMB 28) is satisfactory and made with care. The food selection is limited, but you can get your dose of sugar with a chocolate or cheesecake (RMB 22). You're more likely, though, to drop cash (or your goods) at the adjacent Meridian Market, a shop where you can bring in handicrafts or items of antiquity to sell on 30 percent consignment.

Though still in its early stages, those managing Meridian Market are eagerly trying to fill up its cubbies. Currently available are vintage LPs, handmade porcelain ware, furniture and books. When we stopped by, we took a liking to Body Memory – a series of body parts made from a plaster cast. Though it kind of looked like the contents of a serial killer's trophy cabinet.

The second floor features workspaces for rent, so for RMB 2,500 a month you can peacefully tackle that memoir you’ve been planning. Next door is a workshop space, where film screenings, improv acting classes, and a book club are held monthly. Meridian's team prides itself on being multidisciplinary and has several workshops and exhibitions currently in development. The only limitation here is your own imagination.

Meridian Space
Tue-Sun 10am-7pm. Bldg 8, 77 Meishuguan Houjie, Dongcheng District (5160 0496)
东城区美术馆后街77号77文创园8号楼
Subway: 600m southeast of Nanluoguxiang station ( Lines 6 and 8 )

Also try: Zajia Lab, The Other Place

Photos: Mitchell Masilun