Boost for 'heavy-color' art

China's first art project aimed at encouraging research into traditional heavy-colored ink paintings and oil paintings, was launched recently in Beijing.

The Zhou Changxin Art Fund Heavy-colored Oil Painting Research Project gathers veteran Chinese artists, art critics, theorists and art professors.

"Apart from theoretical studies, art competitions and exhibitions will also be held annually from 2010 to promote the art of heavy-colored oil painting," says team leader Zhou Changxin.

The project is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and the Beijing Culture Development Foundation.