The Guardian Art Center in Beijing hosts exhibitions with a wide range of themes, including contemporary Chinese paintings, porcelain, and classical paintings. [PHOTO PROVIDED TO China Daily]

The rapid growth of the Chinese art market has boosted people's interest in art and collecting.

There are speculators who seek short-term revenues but more buyers want to be serious collectors through systematic learning.

Elgood says collectors should learn so they don't waste money and don't need to rely on dealers to buy for them.

She hopes more Chinese appreciate the country's heritage and respect for the technical quality of its objects.

This will make a large contribution in terms of self-respect and identity of Chinese culture, she says.