A group of Arab artists has produced many artworks infused with Chinese elements following their creative exploration journeys to China, reflecting the deep friendship between China and Arab countries.
On April 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping replied to a letter from this group of Arab artists who have found so much creative inspiration from Chinese life and culture.
This artistic ensemble began organizing trips to China in 2009 and has and created more than 500 works of art, telling the story of Arab-Chinese friendship.
"This is the first time that I visit this amazing land. You will start but you will never end," said Badie Jahjah, a Syrian artist.
"I have visited China seven times and have been amazed by its arts, civilization, the kindness of its people. I want to learn more about China," said Nizar Doher, a Lebanese artist.
In the ancient town of Yaoli in Jingdezhen City, east China's Jiangxi Province, the Arab artists were captivated by the picturesque landscape and the warmth of the local residents' hospitality.
After enjoying a captivating dance performance on a boat, Jahjah felt as though he had found his muse and decided to paint the scene on the spot. He expressed his hope that his artwork, which included a bridge, could serve as a connection between Chinese and Arabic cultures.
"The nice Chinese people would say 'hi' with a smile. I'm really impressed by what happened with the boat and the dancing. This is our remembrance with this atmosphere. I chose a bridge. This is what we are here, this is what we are doing. It's a bridge between two cultures, Arab culture and Chinese culture. All civilizations should have a bridge," said Jahjah.
The artists were also invited to tour the Jingdezhen China Ceramics Museum, where they discovered a porcelain piece inscribed with Arabic characters.
"This subject talking about the historical. It was amazing that I saw a dish that's written [in] Arabic. This is what makes you believe [in] mixing these cultures, presenting that we are one," said Jahjah.
"We experience China through our own hearts during our creative exploration journey. We are grateful for these trips and hope to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative. I want to share our story, so I invited all of our Arab artists to write a letter to President Xi," said Doher.
In their letter to President Xi, the Arab artists expressed their admiration for China's stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. They were particularly impressed by the country's unique cultural landscape and dynamic social development, as well as the warmth, friendliness, bravery, and hard work of the Chinese people. They noted that these creative exploration journeys have provided them with valuable insights into understanding and appreciating China.
In his response letter, President Xi emphasized that culture connects the soul, and art serves as a medium for global communication. He highlighted the longstanding exchanges between Chinese and Arab civilizations, which have evolved from the ancient Silk Road to the contemporary Belt and Road Initiative. This enduring relationship has fostered mutual appreciation and learning, creating a rich historical narrative.
"The happiness of receiving President Xi's reply is beyond words," said Doher.
"We feel very happy that the President encouraged us and supported us artists. It's an honor. It's a motivation to produce more and better, to continue to persevere in arts," said Leila Shili, a Tunisian artist.
In October 2023, the Arab artists showcased their artworks in Jingdezhen. Azougli Abderr Ahman, an Algerian artist, presented his painting of a bridge and gate to China.
"We call it 'crossing civilization'. I put inspiration for Arabic structure and architecture. This big gate is an entrance to go to China, and this is the bridge for friendship. And it (another painting) is my favorite one, 'the house of friendship', where I put China, the love for China, Arabic people, and shake hands between each other," said the artist.
Arab artists draw inspiration from China travels, committ to enhance cultural exchanges
