Built in 1921, the former Taipei City Hall building was originally the home of Jan Cheng Elementary School. Opened during the Japanese ruling period, the school had a student body that was predominantly Japanese with only a handful of Taiwanese students. In the post-war era, it was used to house the city government and became an important landmark for local citizens.

Not until year 1993 when Taipei City Government relocates into its new quarters and in 1996, the building renovation started for the designated historic landmark. The building reopened in May 2001 as the “Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei” and since then, it has become a new landmark on the city’s culture map. Its foundation has based on the principles of art innovation, heritage revitalization and contemporary culture connection. Over the past 9 years, the museum has hosted more than a hundred exhibitions from local and overseas artists. Combining historical architecture and contemporary art, MOCA Taipei has provided a prime reference point for local citizens exchanging experiences. In addition, the Museum’s collaboration with Jan Cheng Junior High School has also strengthened its educational role. It is a great example of the redevelopment of old spaces while promoting art and culture in the communities.

MOCA Taipei amplifies a perfect combination of contemporary art, historical architecture and technology thanks to the joint efforts of Taipei City Government, the local community, artists and the business world. Besides displaying contemporary art in new and usual media within a beautiful historical setting, it will bring innovation into Taipei and art into the community. MOCA Taipei seeks to be a valued neighbor in the community.