Meridian Space presents “China Meets Norway in a Bookshelf—Independent Picture Book Festival 2017.” During this festival, from August 23rd to 26th, we will exhibit some of the most original and creative picture books ever produced in China. This time, Meridian, together with Northing — a multifunctional cultural organisation based in Bergen, Norway — has also invited ten Norwegian illustrators and book artists to share with us their works, which will accompany over a hundred Chinese picture books.

In China, picture books are often seen as being exclusively reserved for children. However, the works presented in Meridian’s Independent Picture Book Festival are aimed at all different readerships, regardless of age: innovative, full of literary appeal and visually striking, these books express a spirit of independence and freedom; they stand for the passion and enthusiasm of the young artists who created them.

In June 2016, Meridian launched the first Independent Picture Book Festival. We had the pleasure of receiving over 2,000 visitors in only three days’ time. For this year’s third edition of the Festival, apart from a rich selection of fresh, original and inspiring Chinese works, we are also thrilled to welcome ten Norwegian picture books authors. Apart from exhibiting their works, some of them will also be present talks, readings, or performances.

Åshild Kanstad Johnsen, who deeply enjoys collecting objects found in nature, will introduce you to his thoughtful log-boy, Kubbe. As for illustrator Gunvor Rasmussen, she will tell you how she fights racism and extreme nationalism with a unicorn, and how she initiated the Bryggen Pirate Festival.

If you are into fanzines, don’t miss the chance to meet Fredrik Rysiedal, the leader of the Norwegian Fanzine Society. Apart from launching and organizing the Bergen Art Book Fair, the Draft Comic Festival, and the Bergen Fanzine Evenings, Fredrik has also created two “screen-based comics.” Blending sound effects, experimental music, acting and reading, “Close, Closer, Closest” and “Sound of Aurora” are both graphic novels and unforgettable performances.

On August 23rd, at the Festival’s opening party, you will have the chance to experience these two celebrated works LIVE! Click here to buy the VIP tickets and join our opening party.