A photo shows the French Pavilion being built for the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, in Shanghai on April 27, 2010. [Xinhua]

With various French art styles -- from modern art to classic works like Vincent Van Gogh, the French pavilion offers a creative feast for international and Chinese art enthusiasts alike.

Alexandre, a worker in the French Pavilion, said: "Exhibits in the Pavilion include paintings by masters Paul Cezanne, Pierre Bonnard, Vincent Van Gogh, Jean- Francois Millet, Edouard Manet, Paul Gauguin."

He added the masterpieces including The Dance Hall in Arles by Van Gogh, The Balcony by Edouard, Woman with Coffee Pot by Cezanne, which are rare to see for ordinary art lovers.

The French Pavilion also presents a wide range of works by Chinese contemporary artists Zao Wou-Ki and Yan Pei-Ming and Chen Zhen, whose works build a bridge between French and Chinese cultures. The three artists have worked a long time in France where they have been greatly inspired by the culture.

The pavilion, dubbed "the Sensual City", will showcase not only artwork but the sights, smells, and sounds of France, said Alexandre.

A latticed structure forms the cover of the 6,000 sq m building, which will have a roof garden and a large pond built underneath.

Paris Deputy Mayor Christian Sautter told Xinhua "It will be a pavilion of dreams, which is like a fairy land for children."

France has hosted seven World Expos since the first one was launched in 1855. It holds the record for holding the greatest number of world expos.

With its theme of "Better City -- Better Life," the Shanghai World Expo will be held from May 1 to Oct. 31 on a site covering 5.28 square km. Around 70 million visitors are expected to enjoy this grand event.

Chinese contemporary artist Yan Pei-Ming's Children paintings in front of the French Pavilion being built for the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, in Shanghai on April 27, 2010. [Xinhua]

(Xinhua News Agency April 27, 2010)