The sinewy running horse was drawn in the twilight years of master painter Xu Beihong.(Photo: CCTV.com)

Crossing the River from contemporary painter Luo Zhongli (Photo: CCTV.com)

Tradition and avant-garde, indigenous and the exotic clash at 11th Beijing International Art Expo. It opened Sunday morning in the Chinese capital. Domestic and international galleries have assembled diversified artworks in an attempt to paint the broad view of the currents in international culture.

A look at tradition is always the jump-off point for gaining a broader perspective. Traditional Chinese paintings from the Shen Xueren Gallery are placed at the center of the hall. Among them is this ink painting. The sinewy running horse was drawn in the twilight years of master painter Xu Beihong. A series of ink and watercolors from Lin Fengmian, Zhang Daqian and Liu Haisu are among the Gallery's selection for the expo.

Just like China's economy is booming, the performance of Chinese contemporary paintings at international auctions has kept art professionals in amazement. Among the miracle-makers are Crossing the River from Luo Zhongli. It was hammered off at over 16 million yuan last year. And there is the final piece - a serene waterside town on canvas - from the late oil painter Chen Yifei.

Zhang Yu, curator of Sanchuan Gallery, said, "The painting was done shortly before Chen's death. I bought this from a friend for four million yuan RMB. This is to remain at the gallery. It very well exemplifies our quest for beauty and value. "