Visitors view watercolor paintings at the first Universal Watercolor Exposition 2018 in Zhuji, Zhejiang province, on Nov 3. [Photo/zjol.com]

The first Universal Watercolor Exposition 2018 was held in Zhuji, Zhejiang province, on Nov 3.

Hosted by the International Watercolor Society (IWS) and Zhuji municipal government, the international expo received more than 3,000 watercolor paintings from over 70 countries and regions. Twelve pieces in particular stood out among the other entries and were honored with awards.

With a focus on realist art, the expo is set to last until Nov 12, with 12 renowned watercolor painters in attendance, including Guan Weixing and Joseph Zbukvic. A series of activities will also feature during the event, including forums and exhibitions.

Zhuji was chosen to host the expo due to its long history of great painters and the local government's emphasis on the development of the culture industry. From the Tang Dynasty (618-907) to today, over 200 famous artists have been born in the city.