Founded in early 1996 as an artist-run space, Para Site is Hong Kong’s most active and longstanding institution dedicated to the exhibition, and discursive study of, contemporary visual art. As an alternative art space, Para Site was a key platform that embraced experimental practices not easily adopted into the commercial and institutional structures of the time. During its early years, Para Site was driven by an impetus to connect local and international ecosystems, promote discourse around contemporary art, and establish professional development opportunities for curators. This ethos has endured; over the years, Para Site’s activities have encompassed a range of different formats, including P/S magazine (1997–2006), a bilingual visual arts magazine dedicated to contemporary arts criticism; a Curatorial Training Programme (2007–2010); the International Conference (2013-2019), amongst others. 

From 1997–2015, Para Site occupied a shopfront space in Sheung Wan. In 2015, Para Site moved into greatly expanded quarters in Quarry Bay, allowing for a wider range of projects to take place.