The Former Sino-French University in Beijing has been officially transformed into an art gallery. For the inauguration of the new establishment, an exhibition dedicated to artistic exchanges between China and France over 100 years showcases the rich tradition of cultural ties between the two nations.

For the inauguration of the new establishment, an exhibition dedicated to artistic exchanges between China and France over 100 years showcases the rich tradition of cultural ties between the two nations.

There was no better place to celebrate a century of cultural ties than at the 100 year old Sino-French University in Beijing. Supported by then-minister of education Cai Yuanpei, the school educated more than 1,700 Chinese students who later went on to become important politicians, scientists and artists.

Jean-Paul Desroches, curator of Guimet Museum of Paris, said, "This is a dialogue not only from the point of view of politics or economics, but also of art. We are here in a place where the destination is art, and we want this dialogue to contribute to help the understanding of our two countries."

The dialogue is demonstrated in the portraits of great French writers, and of Chinese artists who once lived in France. Many Chinese revolutionaries of the 20s were also among those educated in France, particularly at the Sino-French Institut in Lyon . The young painter among these portraits, Xie Lei, is part of the most recent generation of artistic exchange between France and China.

Xie Lei, Chinese painter, said, "I represent the continuity of this communication. Our generation is much more open. And I think the boundaries and the limits are more vague for us. I am a Chinese painter but I want to create international art."

Every year, there are more than 200 art exchange activities between China and France.

Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former PM of France, said, "The important thing is to find a place to receive young creators in Beijing, young Chinese, young French, or even young Europeans. We want to help young artists to find their own language, so that they won't copy each other, and that they assume a diversity."

The host of the exhibition, gallery Yishu 8 will receive French artists when they travel to Beijing, and is busy hosting a range of exhibitions throughout the year.