Renato Pegoraro (left), an Italian restaurant proprietor with over a decade of experience in Tianjin's Italian-inspired area within the Hebei district, sits for a portrait by a Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts student. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On May 5, students from the Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts created original plein air sketches for locals and tourists along the picturesque banks of the Haihe River.

In addition to creating portraits for locals and tourists, they skillfully captured the urban landscapes, infusing Tianjin's iconic river with an artistic touch.

Renato Pegoraro, an Italian restaurant proprietor, sits for a portrait by a Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts student during an art event on May 5, 2024. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The students presented Renato Pegoraro, an Italian restaurant proprietor with over a decade of experience in Tianjin's Italian-inspired area within the Hebei district, with a portrait.

He commended their artistic prowess and the local community's hospitality, expressing, "I adore the stunning Haihe River and admire these dedicated and promising artists ... Tianjin boasts scenic beauty and a welcoming populace."

An international family receives their baby's portrait from a Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts student on May 5, 2024. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Other expatriates residing in the Hebei district also participated in the sketching event, fostering a cultural exchange and artistic camaraderie along the riverbanks.