Painters and calligraphers participating in the exhibition pose for a photo at Xiling Seal Engraver's Society in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, on Oct 30. [Photo/ hangzhou.gov.cn]

Artists from Taiwan assembled at an exhibition in Hangzhou on Oct 30 to showcase their paintings and calligraphy works. 

The exhibition, which was hosted by the Xiling Seal Engraver's Society and Taiwan Qingliu Painting Society, brought together approximately 10 artists from both the Chinese mainland and Taiwan to discuss traditional Chinese painting styles and calligraphy.

Both of us share the same cultural roots, said Song Baisong, dean of Jiangnan Painting and Calligraphy Institute, adding that Chinese paintings are the shining pearl of their shared culture.

He went on to say that artists from both sides of the Straits are responsible for preserving a shared cultural heritage and promoting it to a wider world.

Chinese paintings play a pivotal role in preserving and developing Chinese culture; they reflect people's lives and depict the social changes of the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, commented a female Taiwan artist.

The exhibition appeared popular with many younger Taiwan residents.

A college student surnamed He from Taipei National University of the Arts said that young people from the island need to visit the Chinese mainland more often and engage in activities with their peers there.

"That will help us expand our horizons and draw out the essence of our culture," He added.

Participants also visited a number of places to honor some well-known Chinese painters and calligraphers, as well as some scenic spots such as the West Lake area and Xixi National Wetland to seek artistic inspiration.