The history of the development of the oil painting market in China and the problems of its formation

This study analyzes the history of the development of the oil painting art market in contemporary China, examines the structure and features of the existing art market, as well as analyzes the problems occurring in the process of its formation. The aim of the article is to reveal the stages of development of the main subjects (artists, collectors, art consultants) and institutions (art galleries, auction houses, exhibition spaces, museums) of the oil painting art market in China, which, interacting with each other, create, circulate, and consume art. The objectives of the article are to first consider the approaches to studying this phenomenon and then the stages of the formation of the Chinese auction market, to uncover the role of art galleries and art exhibitions in shaping and developing the structure of the modern Chinese art market. The specificity of the research determined the need for a systematic approach, as the painting art market in China is considered as a complex and multifaceted socio-cultural phenomenon. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that it identifies the features of the functioning of the painting market in China at present, as well as noting that the traditions of art collecting during this period of the country's cultural development are only being formed due to economic stabilization and the emergence of a number of institutions. In addition, the main problems are identified, and prospects for their resolution are outlined. As a result, the article discusses three stages of the formation of the Chinese auction market, four stages of the establishment of art galleries, and stages of development of exhibitions showcasing oil paintings, including national ones. In conclusion, as a way to address the existing problems, the necessity of continuously enhancing the competency level of collectors specializing in contemporary Chinese artists' works is indicated.