Zhanjiang arts and crafts shine at ICIF

The Zhanjiang delegation had an impressive presence at the 14th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) held in Shenzhen, bringing home two gold medals, four silver medals, and one bronze medal for its arts and crafts.

Founded in 2004, ICIF is the only national cultural trade fair in the country. With a theme of "Opening-up", this year's event has attracted more than 2,308 exhibitors from 42 countries and regions across the world who wish to showcase their cultural resources and developments.

Covering more than 100 square meters, the Zhanjiang Pavilion features an ocean blue color scheme and is shaped like ocean waves in order to highlight the city's pivotal role in the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.

The pavilion displayed creative artworks from 13 local cultural enterprises and organizations to promote Zhanjiang's culture internationally. The artworks include "lions' head" from the Longwan Lion Dance Troupe, Leizhou handmade tobacco pipes, wood block paintings from the Zhanjiang Museum, Suixi fish-shaped lamps, and ball-jointed dolls from Lingnan Normal University.

A Zhanjiang tobacco-pipe-making master said that he had attended the fair for four consecutive years. Over this period, he has been committed to improving his skills by shifting focus from materials and appearance to quality and intrinsic value.

To enhance visitors' engagement, the Zhanjiang Museum encouraged them to try their own hands at wood block painting. By experiencing the artistic process for themselves, they can get a better understanding of the artworks.