At the opening ceremony, French and Pakistani artists decorate a fan featuring the Juyuan New Area, embodying the concept of "Silk Road Integration". [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
The 15th International Traditional Art Invitational Exhibition opened in Fengde Garden in the Juyuan New Area — located in the Jiading district of Shanghai — on July 19.
Running to Aug 2, it's gathered works from over 150 artists in more than 30 countries, promoting Silk Road cultural exchanges.
Exhibits span paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics and lacquer art, showcasing diverse cultural influences. French artist Francoise's piece Rooting uses plane tree bark to link her hometown and Shanghai emotionally.
Pakistani artist Riya's Calligraphy blends Urdu script with bright colors, mirroring Shanghai's cultural vitality which she's experienced from her local friendships.
Chinese artist Zhu Jiefeng's Bamboo among the Four Gentlemen fuses rice paper, acrylic and Western stained-glass elements, echoing the Belt and Road spirit.
On-site workshops allow participants to have a go at making coffee-dyed silk works and gourd carvings, letting visitors experience traditional art firsthand.
The exhibition is said to bridge civilizations — breathing new life into Silk Road cultures through art exchanges.