The documentary Zhanjiang: Framed in a Sketchbook records a cross-cultural dialogue spanning thousands of miles. French illustrator Hervé Dauce was invited by Zhanjiang native cartoonist Lin Dihuan (pen name "Xiaolin") to visit this southern Chinese coastal city, a place Dauce had never even heard of before.
Walking along the city's streets and coastline, the two artists explored mangrove forests, Fisherman's Wharf, Wuchuan's "Piaose" (traditional folk float performances), old stone steps dating back to the French concession era, and the bustling lanes of Chikan Old Town. Dauce had initially planned to create 20 artworks, yet he was so captivated by what he saw that he ended up producing more than 40 pieces. Director Chen Nie remarked that this creative trip was "like a key" opening a door for mutual understanding between different civilizations.
In the future, this collection of artworks will be exhibited in Dauce's hometown in southern France, offering overseas audiences a chance to perceive Zhanjiang, and China at large, through the perspective and sketches of the two artists.
Reporter: Liu Dongming
Video source: Publicity Department of Zhanjiang City
