Illustration is a very special art category that originally served as a tool to assist literary works, allowing for better clarification and visualization of complex ideas, ultimately conveying the author's intent. It is a highly narrative art form, full of storytelling. The word "illustration" comes from the Latin word "illustrare," meaning "to light up."
The Exhibition of 1st China Illustration Annual Competition(CIAC) was held at the Guangzhou Library, rather than an art museum. This may be because illustration art originated from books and magazines. It fits perfectly.
In addition to the award-winning gold, silver, and bronze medal works, outstanding competition entries, and specially invited exhibition works, there is also a special Guangzhou section. All the illustrations here are related to Guangzhou, including traditional culture, humanities, urban landscapes, and more. As we look at familiar scenes presented through different interpretations, some plain and simple, some cartoonishly amusing, and some fantastical, it reminds that beauty lies all around us, just there and waiting to be discovered.