The International Print Biennial opened in Beijing on September 6, and the Yanhuang Art Museum has been filled with 300 delicate works created by wood engraving and other print making techniques. 217 famous artists from Asia, Europe, and South and North America took part in it. Only 16 lucky artists pocketed the prizes.

Wei Jia, the creator of "Super Man", won the gold prize. He said it was a great encouragement for both himself and his Chinese peers.

"There is still a gap between Chinese and western print artists. So we need more personal artistic style if we want to show our talent among so many competitors. My works are more modern. Maybe that's reason why they have been successful," said Wei.

The works from 43 countries and regions all reveal their own unique characters. The diversity of art, language, styles and technique broaden the visual appreciation and imagination of their viewers. Whether they have bright colors, abstract designs or fascinating modern wood engraving techniques, the prints on show are definitely eye-catching.

With its thousands of years of profound printing accomplishments, the Chinese hosts aim to make the Biennial a grand gathering for exchange between western and eastern artists.

Dong Guiqiang, deputy director of Organizing Committee of Beijing Int’l Print Biennial, said: "China's print art is very developed. So we aim not just to provide a forum for cultural exchange, but to promote a broader appreciation of the art among ordinary people as well."

Silver prize winner, Pasternak Maurice from Belgium, says people need more sincere communication. Without it we are alone even though we all live on the same planet. Maybe that's also what the organizers are aiming for -- artistic understanding and friendships.

(CCTV.com September 9, 2003)