Designing a new relationship

He adds that schools of art and design in engineering universities will only stand out when they find ways to learn from such majors as mechanical engineering and software.

Meanwhile, BJUT is running workshops on Chinese painting and calligraphy, traditional tie-dyeing techniques and shadow plays for visiting Polish students after the competition.

Polish student Dorota Wozniak says she found similarities between the two cultures.

"We both have exquisite porcelain and traditional paper craftwork," she says.

"But there are more cultural similarities for me to discover. A single trip is not enough."