Converted from an old tea factory (another example in a running theme of factory conversions) ArtPlay is located in a cultural hotspot, walking distance from Tatintsian Gallery and Winzavod. Similar to the concept of Flacon and Red October, ArtPlay is one of the first creative clusters to have appeared in Moscow. Having moved to the abandoned factory near Kurskaya Station six years ago, ArtPlay now occupies an entire city block. They have certainly made good use of the space however, filling the empty rooms with galleries, restaurants, shops and studios.
As you enter, passing by the English pub and a variety of shops, we recommend stopping for food at the restaurant ‘Domozhilov’. There is a breezy and colourful terrace where you can enjoy a delicious Georgian sandwich, or a juicy shashlik (Russian barbeque).
ArtPlay has so much to offer, you can spend the whole day there without setting foot in an exhibition. Most weekends there are different events taking place, from design markets to flea markets, musical events or film screenings. The markets host small, individual businesses selling clothes, jewellery, homemade produce and other delightful treats. You can spend hours wandering from stall to stall, chatting to the friendly owners about what they’re selling and trying the delicious food on offer. The schedule changes often so keep an eye on their website to make sure you don’t miss a one-off event.
Artplay is a magnet for young people but it’s also an ideal place for families. As well as exhibitions that children will love, there is also an art studio where children can take part in art classes, learning to create comics, design t-shirts and build extravagant structures.
ArtPlay is lively by day, but it doesn’t by any means go to sleep at night. Rodnya, a popular techno club is located in ArtPlay and attracts young people from all over the city. If you love techno, you can’t pass up an opportunity to spend a night at Rodnya, but even if you don’t, you will love the quirky venue and stunning views across the city. Sold yet? We thought so, now let’s head to Flacon to check out their creative vibe.