Tamara Nikolayevna has mastered many artistic skills, including acting and sculpting, but never expected to start learning traditional Chinese painting at the age of 75.

"I long for Chinese culture, but it's a pity I have not had the chance to experience it or been to China before. Now, my daughter is so surprised that I can paint such a beautiful picture after only taking two classes," said Nikolayevna, one of the Russians studying traditional Chinese painting at the Chinese Culture Center in Moscow.

The establishment of the center in December is one of the latest efforts by China to help more Russians learn the language and culture of China.