An exhibition of paintings by 11 Arab artists opens in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province on Sept 10. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

An exhibition of 40 paintings featuring Arab artists' impressions and insights on Zhejiang opened to the public in Hangzhou, capital of the East China province on Sept 10.

As an important cultural project hosted by China's Ministry of Culture, 11 artists from Arab countries including Kuwait, Lebanon and Tunisia were invited to visit Zhejiang and depict their impressions of the province via paintings. The exhibition is a result of their five-day visit to cities like Lishui and Yiwu.

Their paintings boast abundant Chinese features including the oil-paper umbrella, Chinese cuisine, Chinese characters and traditional costumes.

The harmonious combination of colors and Chinese elements amazed Chinese scholars. Zhou Xiaosong, associate professor at China Academy of Art remarked that the water towns in Jiangnan (region south of the Yangtze River) usually reminded us of Chinese ink and wash paintings, but this time, colors applied by Arab artists showed him a new persepective to admire the scenes, which inspired his creations and course designing.

"The art exchanges are an important part of Sino-Arab ties," said Chen Yao, deputy director of Zhejiang's culture department. She hopes the exhibits will help Chinese people gain a better understanding of Arab arts.

In addition to Chinese provinces and cities, the 40 paintings will also embark on an exhibition tour in Arab countries.