Come to Guangming for Tintin, Smurfs, and 100 years of magic

In Shenzhen, the best cultural events are often free — and this one is no exception.

Until Sept. 19, a pop culture and art exhibition at Guangming Culture and Art Center (GCAC) is bringing a century of Belgium's finest comics to the city.

Housed in Hall B on the third floor of the GCAC Fine Arts Museum, "What's in the Bubble? Over a Century of Belgian Comics" presents over 100 precious original manuscripts, prints, sculptures, animation storyboards, vintage posters, and historical documents. Harking back to the golden age of Belgian comics, the exhibition features Tintin, the Smurfs, and other beloved characters familiar to Chinese audiences.

The word “bubble” in the exhibition title carries a double meaning: literally, it refers to the speech bubbles that carry dialogue in comics; metaphorically, it evokes the idea that comics create a fantastical bubble — an escape from the humdrum of everyday life.

Visitors look closely at pages from “Gaston” by André Franquin. Photos courtesy of the event organizers

For the first time, the exhibition brings together over 100 rare pieces from nine classic comic series, including “The Adventures of Tintin” by Hergé, “The Smurfs” by Peyo, “Jommeke” by Jef Nys, “Gaston” by André Franquin, “Suske en Wiske” by Willy Vandersteen, and more.

“The Adventures of Tintin”comics books published in the Chinese language.

A page from “The Adventures of Tintin” by Hergé.

A figurine of Tintin.

The rare manuscripts on display offer visitors a glimpse into the painstaking creative journeys of these masters — erasures and corrections laid bare, revealing the hard labor behind each finished work.

The 1980s Chinese living room — where a generation gathered around the TV for their daily Smurf fix.

Sculptures and recreated scenes inspired by the original comics invite audiences to step into the worlds of the Smurfs, Tintin, Marsupilami, Gaston, and others, while interactive experiences let visitors personally feel the magic of comic “bubbles.”

A dedicated section of the exhibition traces the history of Sino-Belgian cultural exchange, highlighting milestones such as the publication of Chinese-language Tintin editions in the 1980s and recent visits and joint exhibitions between Chinese and Belgian cartoonists.

Wim Peeters (L), Consul General of Belgium in Guangzhou, shakes hands with Chinese cartoonist Jin Cheng.

At the opening ceremony on July 2, Wim Peeters, Consul General of Belgium in Guangzhou, awarded the Belgian Order of the Crown to Jin Cheng, a renowned Chinese cartoonist and founder of Guangzhou's JC Comics Museum.

Jin begancollecting Belgian comics in 2008, starting with a signed drawing by Peyo, and has since become a devoted fan of Tintin, the Smurfs, and European comics at large.

In his speech, Jin noted that Belgian comics — crafted by masters who spent years honing their skills — embody profound philosophical reflection and humanistic warmth. He also observed that their signature ligne claire ("clear line") style resonates with the Chinese baimiao (line drawing) technique, making them instantly accessible to Chinese audiences.

"Comics are a bridge for humanity," he said. "People instantly get the story, the gags, and the hidden punchlines; no translation is needed."

Challenging the stereotype that comics are only for children, the exhibition presents Belgian comics through multiple lenses — art history, social narrative, and humanistic care.

Guests at the opening ceremony pose for a photo in a Smurf-themed "retro living room" at GCAC.

As a major project of the museum this year, it is also part of the NOVA Art Season, which combines art exhibitions with educational programs and community outreach activities. As an outdoor extension, the Smurfs will "sneak out" in July to GCAC's atrium garden, staircases, and rooftop, giving visitors plenty of photo opportunities.

A poster is seen outside the GCAC.

The exhibition is co-sponsored by GCAC, the Guangdong Animation Artists Association, and the Consulate General of Belgium in Guangzhou. All age groups are welcome, and admission is free.

All age groups are welcome, and admission is free.

Dates: Until Sept. 19

Hours: 10:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30), Monday to Sunday

Venue: Hall B, 3/F, Guangming Culture and Art Center

Metro: Line 6 or 13 to Fenghuang Town Station (凤凰城站), Exit F

Hotline: 21062296