The themed art exhibition "Fresh Zhanjiang" Sino-French Artists' Sketch Exhibition opened on February 6 at the former site of the Guangzhou Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Zhanjiang Municipal Committee, the exhibition brings together about 100 sketches and creations by Lin Dihuan (the author of Xiaolin Comics), a Zhanjiang-born cartoonist, and Hervé Dauce, a French illustrator.
"Freshness" lies at the heart of this artistic dialogue. Hervé Dauce, who comes from a coastal region, found Zhanjiang "both familiar and fresh". The captivating scenery, the warm people he met, and the authentic local delicacies he tasted during his trip all became inspiration for his works.
Hervé Dauce also mentioned that Dongfeng Wharf left a deep impression on him. The vitality that bursts forth as fishermen return with full catches, followed by the bustling seafood trade, cooking, and dining, vividly embodies Zhanjiang's spirit of living in harmony with the ocean. "It is not just scenery; it is the beating pulse of the city," he said.
From a local perspective, Lin depicts the landscapes and products of his hometown. Plump, juicy red pitayas, local seafood such as peanut worms and golden pomfrets come alive in his paintings, paired with handwritten annotations. He gently narrates the local specialities, scenery, and cultural stories of Zhanjiang, allowing residents and visitors to savor those flavors.
The exhibition spans five venues: the former site of the Guangzhou Bay Chamber of Commerce (广州湾商会旧址), the former site of the French Minister Department of Guangzhou Bay (广州湾法国公使署旧址), Lianjiang Youxi Building (廉江有戏大楼), Wuyang Cultural Station (吴阳客厅), and the Passenger Waiting Hall of Xuwen Port (徐闻港旅客候船厅). All are open to the public for free.
Author | Deng Qiaoyue
Photo | Yang Zhengmin
