On April 24, the "Symphony of Civilizations 2026 International Art Invitational Exhibition", co-hosted by Hebei Normal University and the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in China, officially opened at the Hebei Normal University Museum. The event was attended by the spouses of ambassadors from six countries, including the Republic of Albania, the Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of North Macedonia, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Kingdom of Morocco, and the Republic of Latvia, as well as the spouse of the Minister-Counselor of the Albanian Embassy. Li Guijun, Deputy Party Secretary and President of Hebei Normal University, attended the opening ceremony and delivered an address. Numerous artist representatives from the Hebei Artists Association, the Hebei Arts and Crafts Society, the Hebei Art Museum, the Hebei Academy of Fine Arts, and Hebei University were also invited to the event. Leaders from relevant departments, including the International Cooperation Office, the School of Fine Arts and Design, and the University Museum, along with faculty and student representatives, were present.

Li Guijun stated that this exhibition seamlessly blends traditional heritage with contemporary innovation, showcasing the vibrant vitality of Yanzhao art's adherence to tradition while embracing innovation. It also highlights the unique charm of diverse civilizations along the Belt and Road Initiative, achieving comprehensive upgrades in the scope of exchange, cooperative framework, and educational models. Transitioning from bilateral dialogue to broader Asia-Europe linkage, the exhibition is evolving into a distinctive cultural brand that integrates art displays, academic research, aesthetic education, and international cooperation. It represents a valuable exploration in promoting the integration of education and art, as well as facilitating cultural exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.

Ilda Poda, spouse of the Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to China, pointed out that this year's exhibition gathers artistic forces from multiple nations, achieving enhancements in both scale and curatorial concept, and has developed into a comprehensive platform for international cultural exchange. In today's world, dialogue, understanding, and trust among different civilizations are more necessary than ever. She expressed hope that this art exhibition would serve as a bond to inspire artists' creativity, enhance mutual friendship, and deepen understanding.

Cui Qiang, Dean of the School of Fine Arts and Design, introduced the concept and overall details of the exhibition, while young artist representative Lai Junjie shared his creative insights and artistic reflections. The opening ceremony was presided over by Cheng Changhong, Party Secretary of the School of Fine Arts and Design.

Over the years, Hebei Normal University has remained rooted in the rich cultural soil of Hebei Province, deeply engaged in art education and creative practice, and has taken the promotion of civilizational exchange and mutual learning as its mission. This year's art exhibition marks three major leaps: branding, internationalization, and regularization. It not only provides a platform for dialogue among artists from various countries but also serves as a vivid practice of "using art as a medium to promote the integration of civilizations," demonstrating the university's proactive efforts in expanding international academic exchanges. Meanwhile, the event broadens the international artistic horizons of faculty and students, laying a foundation for future overseas study tours and enhancing public aesthetic education. It plays a significant role in promoting mutual learning, appreciation, and symbiotic development between Chinese and foreign art.

About the Exhibition:

In May 2025, Hebei Normal University and the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in China successfully co-hosted the inaugural "Symphony of Civilizations: An Artistic Journey Through Chinese and Albanian Cultures" at the Albanian Embassy. This year, both parties have joined hands once again to host the "Symphony of Civilizations 2026 International Art Invitational Exhibition" at the university's museum.

The exhibition brings together nearly 100 exquisite artworks by outstanding artists from 14 countries, including China and Albania, serving as a profound continuation and comprehensive elevation of the first event's achievements. The exhibited works integrate the poetic charm of Eastern ink painting with exotic artistic styles, paying tribute to cultural heritage with craftsmanship and safeguarding it through creation. The exhibition has realized three major leaps: upgrading from regional art exchange to a regularized, branded international art exhibition covering both Asia and Europe; expanding from bilateral dialogue between China and Albania to a global cultural platform linking multiple countries and diverse civilizations along the Belt and Road for equal mutual learning; and evolving from a one-time art display into a four-in-one university international cultural brand IP integrating "exhibition + academic research + aesthetic education + international cooperation". The exhibition aims to create an annual international art gala that combines global vision, academic height, professional depth, and aesthetic value, allowing art to transcend borders and become a lasting bond connecting minds and facilitating mutual learning among civilizations.