An ongoing exhibition at Shanghai’s Bund 18 Jiushi Art Gallery features the systematic training of basic art principles at the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA), a leading institution of visual arts in China.

On until September 8, the exhibition named Kungfu-True Nature showcases more than 130 artworks by students and teachers from the Foundation Course Department of the Fine Art School at CAFA.

Some of the most renowned artists in China, such as Li Hua, Dong Xiwen and Jin Shangyi, are featured in the exhibition, all used to teach at the institution. The history of CAFA dates back to 1918, when its predecessor, the National Art School in Beiping was founded.

The Foundation Course Department was established in 2001, dedicated to the training of basic art principles in visual art, which lays solid foundation for artistic creation, according to Bai Xiaogang, academic director of the exhibition.