Han Guorui, a folk artist of Dongming grain painting, explains methods of the folk art to Italian visitors. [Photo/dzwww.com]

Han Guorui teaches an Italian visitor to experience grain painting. [Photo/dzwww.com]

The reception of Dongming grain painting among Italian visitors has been somewhat of a novelty. Some foreign visitors were so curious of the folk art that they insisted on learning techniques from Han Guorui on site.

Wang Yongxun, a kite-making master and vice chairman of the Chinese Kite Flying Association attended Shandong Week along with some of his artworks. Wang said that Weifang kites have gained a word wide reputation for its profound Chinese cultural connotation and the skilled craftsmanship involved.

The kites have been exported throughout Europe, America, Australia and Southeast Asia. Local kite flyers were invited to take part in competitions and invitational tournaments in Asia, Europe and America, to expand their presence in overseas contests and markets.

Wang hoped to seek more cooperation opportunities and promote Weifang kites in Italy.

Expo Milano 2015 is being hosted by the city of Milan in Italy from May 1 to October 31, 2015. Its theme is “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life.” The China Pavilion is the second largest foreign pavilion built by the participating countries themselves. It has the theme, “Land of Hope, Food for Life.”