The Dunhuang region is famous for caves that were Buddhist shrines and were buried in the sand for 500 years. Dug out in the 18th century, they are now considered a national treasure and even have a nearby art institute nearby, which was established to study the art. So, it's not a surprise that much of the art from that region is done in the style of the old cave paintings and show an Indian-like Buddhist influence.

There is also a collection of "farmer's paintings." "These were done by untrained artists," explains Klinker. "All of the others were done by artists that have studied in the institutes and even in other parts of the world and have reached a very sophisticated level."

So, it makes for an interesting contrast to see the works of the folk artists, which depict scenes of everyday life as well as interesting symbolism. One, for example, shows a family sitting down to dinner — inside an egg, which itself is inside a chicken. To one side of the chicken are scenes of rural farm life, but on the other side are modern accoutrements such as a motorcycle and electric stove.

Another painting shows acrobats on a tightrope — a popular entertainment. And, there's a dramatic depiction of the weighing of good and evil at the end of life of a man who seems to have not done so well, as the flames are lapping as his body.

The paintings are arranged by region, but also in ways that can lead to discussions about various topics such as geography, architecture, economics and agricultural methods, says Klinker. "We hope those discussions will be particularly interesting to students," she says. Already, they've booked tours for more than 500 students and hope to have about that many more.

The exhibit gives people a chance to see works by new artists that has rarely been seen outside China, she adds.

But she hopes it will also help build understanding of the people and culture of China. "China is becoming so important in the global economy. Yet, many people still think it is mysterious. This exhibit shows that it is a multi-cultural society like ours, with people who have all kinds of backgrounds, all kinds of traditions."

China has been opening up. "Our guests who have come here tell us that social change is happening there at a rate and scale that is unprecedented in human history," she says. "It's important for us to build understanding and appreciation at the grass-roots level."

If you go

What: "Ancient Threads, Newly Woven: Recent Art from China's Silk Road"

Where: Utah Cultural Celebration Center, 1355 W. 3100 South, West Valley City

When: Through Oct. 17