An art exhibition celebrating the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Italy opened on Wednesday at the prestigious National Academy of Lincei in Rome.
The two-week exhibition is being co-hosted by the China Media Group (CMG), the Italian Ministry of Culture, the Museum of Civilizations, the Rome University of Fine Arts, the Italian Football Federation, and the Regional Council of Lazio.
The opening ceremony brought together over 200 distinguished figures from the political, economic, cultural, artistic, media, educational, film, and academic communities of both countries.
Shen Haixiong, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and president of the CMG, delivered remarks at the event.
Noting that China and Italy are both great nations with ancient histories and vibrant cultures, Shen said that cultural exchanges between the two countries have never ceased.
He referenced a remark made by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his 2019 visit to Italy: "Our understanding of time is measured in centuries or millennia," calling it a profound reflection of the long-term vision of two great civilizations.
Shen emphasized that this joint exhibition allows the cultural treasures of both countries to transcend time and shine together, offering a vivid expression of their shared understanding of history.
As the one world's biggest international media organizations in terms of scale, services, and global reach, the CMG has consistently served as a recorder, promoter, and participant in China-Italy cultural dialog, said Shen.
He added that it has been heartening to see more and more Italian friends develop a love for Chinese culture in recent years.
The exhibition features more than 200 selected works by over 100 renowned Chinese contemporary calligraphers, painters, inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, and master artisans. It also includes more than 100 treasured Italian artworks from the Museum of Civilizations in Rome.
The exhibits highlight both the uniqueness and shared elements of the two cultures, showcasing Chinese traditional crafts such as painting and calligraphy, cloisonne, bamboo carving, embroidery, Yunjin, a traditional Chinese silk brocade, as well as jade carving and paper-cuttings, alongside Italian traditional costumes, ceramics, bronze ware, and other cultural relics.
This cultural mosaic reflects a philosophy of openness, inclusiveness, and coexistence, and serves as a bridge of friendship between the people of both sides.
The exhibition is set to remain open to the public at the National Academy of Lincei until July 9.
Founded in 1603 and located in the historic center of Rome, the Academy is one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious research institutions. Often referred to as the "cradle of modern science," it serves not only as one of Italy's highest academic authorities but also as a key scientific and cultural advisory body to the President of Italy.
Rome art exhibition marks 55 years of China-Italy diplomatic ties
