An exhibition of Chinese peony paintings is held at the China Cultural Center in Sofia, Bulgaria. [Photo/ Yinzhou News]

An exhibition of Chinese peony paintings opened at the China Cultural Center in Sofia, Bulgaria on July 15.

More than 60 works displayed at the exhibition were from overseas art students of Jiang Hongsheng, founder of the Ningbo-based Red Peony art society. In addition to paintings of peonies, roses and peacocks, works of calligraphy were also on exhibit.

Jiang began a training course in Sofia on June 23, teaching Bulgarian people to draw peonies in the traditional style of Chinese painting. Over its 20 day duration, the course attracted over 30 local residents from all walks of life, including university teachers and students, and retired senior citizens.

The Red Peony is an art organization mainly for international students, visitors and expats. Since it was launched five years ago, it has attracted thousands of people from 168 countries to learn about Chinese arts.

Jiang himself has gone abroad many times to showcase Chinese arts on the international stage and teach art. Thanks to his efforts, several of his students have gone on to dedicate themselves to a career in art. A Slovenian man who learned painting at Red Peony plans to set up a painting center in Ljubljana, capital of his country. A trainee from Australia now teaches peony painting in Spain.

Jiang was pleased to see the increasing global influence that the organization is gaining. He said he will also open a Chinese painting and calligraphy course at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China in the new semester.

"I believe the art society will help countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative know more about Ningbo and provide them with chances to experience the beauty of Chinese culture," said Jiang.