The 2024 South China Book Festival and Yangcheng Book Fair will officially open tomorrow. On August 15th, one day before the opening, reporters got a peek at the main venue at Pazhou.
This year's book festival stands out with its enhanced focus on "internationalization," "integration of culture and tourism," and "platform building." For the first time, a special exhibition commemorating the 100th anniversary of Jin Yong's birth and a digital publishing section will be featured, offering high-quality reading content and diverse cultural activities combined with reading.
Notably, the layout of this year's exhibition spaces is more open and spacious, offering visitors an improved experience. The aesthetic design of the exhibition areas is more modern and stylish, with the main venue of the Yangcheng Book Fair adorned primarily in purple, resembling a sea of flowers—dreamlike and vibrant—adding a stunning visual appeal to the festival.
Stepping into the French Pavilion, visitors are greeted by elements of the French flag and a miniature Eiffel Tower, a nod to the "China-France Cultural Spring. " This display reflects the richness and romance of French culture. A selection of French-related books is being showcased, including works that have won the prestigious Fu Lei Translation and Publishing Award, as well as over a hundred books translated from French-speaking countries.
According to Wu Zhenhua, the director of the French Pavilion, the space is divided into five sections: "Discover France," "Flavors of France," "Charming France," "French Architectural Art," and "Sports and Recreation. " These areas highlight the China-France cultural exchange through literature, gastronomy, art, and travel.
"In general, book fairs are seen as places to showcase books. However, to immerse visitors in France's cultural ambiance, we've invited the French fashion design school ESMOD to display trendy clothing designs. Throughout the festival, there will also be tastings of French ice cream, bread, and wine," Wu said.
Wu also noted that the recent Paris Olympics has sparked a surge in interest in French tourism, and suggested that visitors "tour" France at the book festival to experience the country's unique romance and cultural allure.
Besides, in the Yangcheng Book Fair exhibition area, purple flooring combined with blue wave-like decorations above the stands evoke the tranquil beauty of Lingnan's mountains and rivers, with flowers and green lawns scattered throughout.
"This exhibition reflects the seamless blend of Guangzhou's thousand-year history and cultural landscape, creating a 'Flower City Study' environment for readers," said Qiu Shiwen, the director of the exhibition area. The sections will feature themes such as intangible cultural heritage, traditional Chinese medicine, and children's animation. In addition, cultural events with renowned authors such as Ge Liang, Cai Chongda, and Ye Jianqiang will be held throughout the festival.
