Dafen Oil Painting Village is a one-of-a-kind destination for art lovers, a quiet escape away from the busy city of Shenzhen.
Known globally for its hand-painted reproductions, this village brings together traditional art techniques, a vibrant community of artists, and a unique fusion of old-world craftsmanship with the modern art market.
Whether you’re an art collector, an enthusiast, or just curious, Dafen offers a rare glimpse into the world of high-quality oil painting and artistic reproduction.
I only first time heard about Shenzhen Dafen Oil Painting Village shortly before visiting Shenzhen from a Youtube video, but from then on, it was clear to us that we just have to visit that place.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
A Brief History of Dafen Oil Painting Village
Established in 1989 by Hong Kong businessman Huang Jiang, Dafen Oil Painting Village started as a small production centre for hand-painted replicas of Western masterpieces.
Originally, artists focused on recreating famous paintings like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa for export to Western markets. Over the years, it grew into an international art hub, drawing artists from across China.
Today, while Dafen still specialises in art reproduction, it’s also home to a growing number of original artists and offers unique experiences for visitors who want to experience this art world up close.
What to Expect: The Art and Atmosphere in Dafen
When you step into Dafen, you’ll find yourself surrounded by art studios, galleries, and shops showcasing paintings of every style, from classical Western art to modern abstracts and traditional Chinese landscapes. The streets are lined with artists at work, giving you the chance to observe their techniques, ask questions, and sometimes even commission a custom piece.
Art Galleries and Shops
Dafen’s galleries range from small, intimate studios to larger, more formal galleries where you can view high-quality paintings that showcase the talent of local artists. Most artists here focus on oil painting, but you’ll also find some experimenting with watercolors and mixed media. The variety is staggering, with everything from classic portraits and landscapes to avant-garde, contemporary pieces.
Artist Studios
One of the unique aspects of Dafen is the openness of the studios. Many artists work right in front of their studios, giving you a chance to see their process from start to finish. Watching an artist transform a blank canvas into a detailed masterpiece is an experience in itself and gives you a deeper appreciation for the skills involved. You can also chat with the artists directly, gaining insights into their techniques and even the stories behind their works.
Custom Orders and Commissions
One of Dafen’s most popular attractions is the ability to commission a custom piece. Whether you want a specific reproduction, a unique portrait, or a personalized work of art, artists here can tailor their creations to your specifications. Pricing for custom work varies based on the complexity and size of the piece, but it’s generally affordable compared to custom art in other parts of the world.
Hands-On Experiences for Visitors
Dafen is not only a place to admire paintings and artists at work, but also to experience painting yourself, which is the main reason we wanted to visit it.
If you’re feeling inspired, Dafen offers hands-on experience where visitors can try their hand at painting.
In the past we had a great experience with the graffiti street in Chongqing and with crafts making in the Fangsuo Comune bookstore, so we knew that China is a great place for kids to do fun stuff.
The Dafen Painting Village does not disappoint. For 30 yuan Hanna could have the canvas and all the paint she needed all for herself.
Dafen’s Food and Relaxation Spots
Exploring Dafen isn’t just about the art; the village has a laid-back charm that makes it a delightful spot to wander and unwind.
You’ll find small cafes and eateries, serving food from different corners of the country.
These cozy spots offer a break from the city’s usual hustle and bustle, allowing you to relax and soak in the artistic atmosphere.
We were aiming to find Wuhan 热干面 in a shop recommended in the Youtube video, but it turned out to be closed, so we ended up eating some rice noodle soup in a small eatery ran by a very friendly lady.
Visiting with kids
Dafen Oil Painting Village is a great place to visit with kids.
Just having a wonder through this relaxing and unimposing neighbourhood is a great way to introduce your children to art. And they will simply love the ability to feel like artists themselves and work on their masterpiece.
Tips for Visiting Dafen Oil Painting Village
Name: Dafen Oil Painting Village (大芬油画村)
Address: Buji Street, Longgang District
Address: Buji Street, Longgang District
Price: free to visit, cost of 30-50yuan to make your own painting
Suggested visitng time: 2–3 hours
Getting There
Dafen is located in Shenzhen’s Longgang District, accessible by Shenzhen’s subway system. Take Line 3 (Longgang Line) and get off at Dafen Station, then walk a short distance to the village entrance.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. However, weekends often bring special events, artist showcases, and exhibitions, adding extra excitement.
Bargaining Tips
Prices in Dafen are often negotiable, especially if you’re buying more than one piece. Don’t hesitate to politely haggle for a better price, as it’s a common practice.
Shipping Options
Many studios offer shipping services for international visitors. This is especially useful for large or delicate pieces that would be difficult to carry on your own.
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