Combined the optical vortex with computer generated holography, an approach for producing optical vortex array with high quality was proposed. The formation and distribution characteristics of optical vortex array were theoretically discussed, and optical vortex array was produced by numerical simulation. The hologram of optical vortex array was generated by conjugate symmetric extension Fourier computer generated holography. Based on spatial light modulator loaded with holograms, the optical vortex arrays were reconstructed in the experiment. In order to evaluate the generated beams, Mach–Zehnder interference system was adopted. It is very simple and easy to produce the optical vortex array, which provides more complicated light distributions and controllable parameters. The research results may have a potential value in optical micromanipulation, optical communication and other fields.