A man admires a traditional Chinese painting at the Study Exhibition of Nantong Phenomenon in Chinese Fine Arts of the 20th Century held in Beijing on Dec 3. [Photo/ntjoy.com]

The Study Exhibition of Nantong Phenomenon in Chinese Fine Arts of the 20th Century opened at the Art Gallery of the China National Academy of Painting in Beijing on Dec 3. It will run until Dec 8.

The event was sponsored by the China National Arts Fund with the purpose of analyzing the development of fine arts in Nantong from an academic perspective, exploring the value and significance of Nantong fine art, and promoting the development of fine art in the city.

The exhibition consists of three sections, one focusing on document research, one focusing on tracing the origins of fine arts in Nantong, and one focusing on preserving traditions and promoting innovation.

A number of traditional Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, and calligraphy works by native Nantong artists are currently on display at the event.

Nantong fine arts occupy an important place in 20th century fine arts in China. This has been agreed upon by a number of big names in the field, including Shao Dazhen and Xue Yongnian.

Nantong fine art is among the most notable variations of modern fine art in China, one fine arts expert noted.