An exhibition of Shandong culture was held recently in Linz, capital city of the state of Upper Austria, as a major event celebrating the 20th anniversary of friendly relations between Shandong province and Upper Austria.

Some 100 distinguished guests from cultural and economic fields attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition, which was jointly organized by the Shandong provincial government and state officials from Upper Austria.

Twenty billboards were erected at the exhibition to introduce the life of Confucius and his philosophy, as well as the sage's far-reaching influence on the wider world, allowing Austrians to better understand the greatest of the ancient Chinese philosophers.

Folk artists from Shandong province showcased their impressive crafts such as papercutting and woodblock engraving at the exhibition, which attracted huge crowds eager to try their hands at the traditional Chinese handicrafts.

Traditional Chinese music such as Three Stanzas of Plum Blossoms and Fisherman Music was provided by musicians from Shandong University of Arts for the visitors at the exhibition.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cultural cooperation was signed by Shandong province and the state of Upper Austria at the opening ceremony.

An official from Shandong provincial department of culture said that the exhibition was a good opportunity to promote Qilu culture in Austria, deepen a bilateral friendship and ensure a good foundation for further cultural cooperation.

A folk artist from Shandong province demonstrates his papercutting at the Shandong cultural exhibition, in Linz, capital city of the state of Upper Austria. [Photo/Cultural Shandong]

A group photograph of distinguished guests from cultural and economic fields attending the opening ceremony of the exhibition. [Photo/Cultural Shandong]