On April 26, the "Taste in Xiguan" comic exhibition kicked off at the L.C Art Museum in Shamian, Liwan District, Guangzhou. The event invited renowned comic artist Lin Dihuan to vividly present Xiguan cuisine and its related stories through his comics.

The comics feature classic dishes from well-known dining establishments in Liwan, such as White Swan Hotel, Guangzhou Restaurant, Panxi Restaurant, as well as popular street snacks like wonton noodles and sampan congee.

The exhibition at the main venue in Shamian showcases flattened 3D scenes into 2D images, providing visitors with a unique visual experience transitioning from three-dimensional space to two-dimensional artwork.

The stage area was set up with realistic scenes, recreating the ambiance of classic Cantonese tea restaurants. By projecting exploration videos, the exhibition combines real restaurant settings with virtual exploration, creating a multimedia display that enhances interactivity and educational value.

"Food is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a continuation of cultural heritage and urban memories. We hope this exhibition will inspire respect and love for traditional culinary culture, promote the deep integration of culture and food, and offer a richer selection for us to savor both food and the cultures of Guangzhou and Liwan, and experience authentic urban life," said the organizer.

The "Taste in Xiguan" comic exhibition invited Shanghai's renowned gourmet Shen Jialu and Guangzhou's well-known comic artist Lin Dihuan to the event. Through their professional perspectives, the two experts delved into the history and current status of Xiguan cuisine, showcasing the close connection between food and culture.

Lin Dihuan remarked, "The taste of Xiguan cuisine is not just the original flavor of the food itself but also the vibrancy of life and the warmth of local people. When I portray Xiguan cuisine in my drawings, I aim to convey deeper meanings. While I strive to make the food look more realistic and enticing, what I truly hope to capture is the essence behind the food. That's the real flavor." 

Shen Jialu commented, "I have visited Guangzhou several times, but it has been more than ten years since my last visit. This time it feels like a prodigal son returning home after wandering for years. Both Shanghai and Guangzhou have many old buildings, and you can also find Xiguan cuisine in Shanghai. Historically, Guangdong's people and culinary culture have had a significant influence on Shanghai, becoming an important part of Shanghai's diverse culture."

"By holding this exhibition at Hong Kong Plaza, a well-known commercial landmark on Huaihai Middle Road, Shanghai, we aim to strengthen food exchanges between the two cities. This allows Shanghai residents to fully understand Xiguan cuisine and experience its rich cultural background," explained the event organizer. This cross-city cultural exhibition not only enhances residents' understanding of each city's culinary culture but also promotes deeper cultural exchanges between Guangzhou and Shanghai.