NAIROBI, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Two international art exhibitions opened Friday in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, with senior officials, diplomats and cultural leaders attending the opening ceremony to promote cultural exchanges between China and Kenya.
The first exhibition showcases Chinese mythology through paintings, ceramics, sculptures and embroidery.
The second exhibition highlights China's rural revitalization, showcasing how art can contribute to inclusive development, heritage preservation and community livelihoods.
Richard Ndung'u, chairperson of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kenya-China (Asia) Trade and Investment Promotion Committee, noted that the exhibitions reflect how relations between China, Kenya and the wider continent have expanded beyond trade and investment to focus more on people, culture and shared creativity.
According to Ndung'u, culture plays a critical role in building sustainable commercial ties between Kenya and China, making a joint platform for the creative industries essential.
"Exhibitions such as this can open doors to cultural partnerships, tourism opportunities, investment, trade in creative products and new business relationships," Ndung'u said.
Mary Gikungu, director general of the National Museums of Kenya, said the displays showcase the richness and authenticity of Chinese culture while strengthening ties with African societies.
"These exhibitions are therefore more than a display of beautiful artworks. They are a bridge between people, cultures and ideas. They provide an opportunity to learn from one another, appreciate our similarities and celebrate our differences," Gikungu said.
Gao Wei, chairman of the Kenya Overseas Chinese Association, said that the showcase offers an opportunity to leverage visual arts to promote Sino-Kenyan dialogue.
"I hope that through art, we can continue to deepen mutual understanding, strengthen friendship and bring the people of China and Kenya even closer together," Gao added.
During the event, China's Sichuan Fine Arts Institute donated over 30 artworks to the National Museums of Kenya. ■