The "2008 Exhibition of Plastic Arts - Works of Rising Artists", which opened at the National Museum of Fine Arts on Monday, gave prominence to the plastic creations of up and coming artists.

Their works reflect the lives and sentiments of young people in modern society.

Xue Kun, participating artist, said, "My work is called "Sigh". It reflects the perplexed and vulnerable feelings between young lovers and their uncertain prospects for the future. I think oil paintings in a realistic style make the images stand out. That's how plastic arts are best interpreted."

The competition and the exhibition were organized by the China Literature and Art Foundation. It aims to encourage young artists to push the limits of artistic experimentation.

The winning pieces were chosen by an authoritative panel of judges, including established artists and art critics.

The exhibition will run at the National Museum of Fine Arts in downtown Beijing until next Tuesday.