Representative of Arabic artists Leila Shili gives a speech at the opening ceremony of the exhibition. [Photo provided to Chinaculture. org]

Both natural landscapes and traditional Chinese culture became an inspiration to the artists. Traditional Chinese architecture and scenery were featured in their paintings. One Arab artist even created an oil work that mirrors Chinese ink painting, with a color blend of black and white.

The event is also an important activity of the fourth Arabic Arts Festival that was announced to be co-hosted by China and Arab states by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony of the 8th Ministerial Meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum on July 10, 2018.