Sanya youth connect with Russia's Khabarovsk city through art

As part of the celebrations marking the 15th anniversary of sister city relations between Sanya and Khabarovsk — a major city located in Russia's Far East — a cultural event was grabbing the limelight.

Some 15 artworks by young artists from Sanya — the ever-popular tropic resort city in China's southernmost Hainan province — were on display.

They were being shown at the Sister Cities Through the Eyes of Children exhibition at the Khabarovsk City History Museum on May 30 and S.A. Kravchuk, the mayor of Khabarovsk, attended the event.

Paintings by young artists from Sanya catch the attention of residents in Khabarovsk city in Russia. [Photo/Sanya Daily]

The young artists from Sanya presented a diverse array of paintings, full of life and imagination. Their works included scenes of international unity between the two cities, as well as captivating images of Chinese and Russian architecture blending seamlessly.

Some pieces conveyed the hope for global peace, with children from various backgrounds standing together, while others creatively combined themes of space exploration with cultural motifs.

Through their deft and vibrant use of color, these young artists expressed genuine friendship — reflecting the shared desire of Sanya and Khabarovsk to move forwards hand in hand and strengthen Sino-Russian ties.

A painting created by Han Haoda, a young artist from Sanya, goes on show at the Khabarovsk City History Museum. [Photo/Sanya Daily]

Han Haoda, a seventh grader at the Sanya Foreign Language School Affiliated to Shanghai International Studies University, managed to creatively merge the iconic Red Square of Russia with the tropical vibes and modern landmarks of Sanya in his work.

His piece features cultural symbols from both countries, like pandas and peonies alongside matryoshka dolls and brown bears, all linked by a dynamic ribbon that captures the essence of both nations.

Han said this artistic endeavor not only enhanced his creative skills and expanded his international outlook, but also highlighted how art can bridge language barriers and connect people on a deeper level.

Huang Miao, deputy director of the Foreign Affairs Office of Sanya Municipal People's Government, said that the 15-year friendship between Sanya and Khabarovsk has been very fruitful, illustrating Sanya's commitment to international partnerships and openness.

The youth art exchange between the two cities acts as a cultural connection — cementing grassroots diplomacy and showcasing the cultural confidence and global awareness of young people, Huang said.

Future plans include leveraging the sister-city relationship to deepen cooperation in culture, tourism, education and youth exchanges — reinforcing the foundation of Sino-Russian local ties and nurturing the enduring friendship between the two nations, she added.

A bright and breezy painting by a young artist from Sanya goes on display at the Khabarovsk Museum. [Photo/Sanya Daily]

Sanya and Khabarovsk officially became sister cities in February 2011. Over the past 15 years, they've strengthened their collaboration in areas like trade, cultural exchanges and tourism. The introduction of direct flights has made the connection even closer.

Situated in the heart of Russia's Far East, Khabarovsk shares a border with China, creating a natural foundation for deep and meaningful exchanges between the two regions.