South China's Guangdong to exhibit Lingnan Culture in Rio de Janeiro

A cultural exhibition from China's Guangdong Province will open in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on June 27. Titled "'SeeYou in Guangdong' Lingnan Culture Innovation Exhibition" the event is part of the BRICS-themed Dialogue of Civilizations series and serves as a cultural prelude to the 17th BRICS Summit.

Guangdong, located in southern China, is known for its rich Lingnan cultural heritage and strong manufacturing base. The exhibition's three sections feature nearly 100 physical exhibits from several cities in the province, each representing how local manufacturers and brands draw elements from local culture and blend them into contemporary product designs.

In the "Romance in Art Toys" section, trendy art toys from Dongguan, a city widely recognized as China's capital of art toy production, will showcase how traditional customs, beloved foods, and Chinese literary classics are transformed into fun, collectible toy figures. Audiences can meet characters inspired by Cantonese lemon tea, roast goose, and even legendary creatures and heroines.

 Dongguan's local art toy IP "Laura" 

The  "Memories in Building Blocks" section features intricate building block sets from Shantou's Chenghai district, a global toy-making hub. These sets will recreate southern China's lively traditions, like lion dances and Yingge dance, as well as city landmarks from Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

Building block toys featuring Yingge dance, a vibrant folk dance originating from the Chaoshan region of Guangdong Province, China

In the "Gambiered Elegance in Lingnan" section, visitors will discover gambiered Guangdong gauze, a rare silk fabric traditionally handmade in southern China. Often referred to as "soft gold," this textile is valued for its deep luster and eco-friendly dyeing process that uses natural plant extracts. The section will feature qipaos, scarves, and household items crafted in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Foshan. Visitors can also enjoy a live model stage show and step into a try-on area to experience the fabric's unique texture firsthand.

A worker drying gambiered Guangdong gauze under the sun

The exhibition will be open from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm only on June 27 at the Rio de Janeiro State University. Visitors are welcome to explore the rich textures, colors, and creativity of Lingnan culture. 

Reporter | Chen Siyuan 

Poster | Cai Junru 

Photo | Nanfang Plus, Publicity Department of Shantou Municipal Committee

Editor | Hu Nan, James, Shen He