A poster for the exhibition on Nov 4. [Photo/Jilin Animation Institute]

A special exhibition featuring nearly 1,000 original manuscripts of classic Chinese comic strips opened at Jilin Animation Institute on Nov 4, as part of the 4th China (Jilin) Animation Conference. University leaders, faculty members, and students attended the opening ceremony.

The exhibition brings together works across more than 10 categories, including comic strips, animation storyboards, art and character design, comics, sketches, oil paintings, freehand and meticulous-style traditional Chinese paintings, and bird-and-flower paintings. Chinese and international works are displayed side by side, highlighting the artistic connections and creative dialogue among comic strips, animation, and comics.

Peng Wei, vice-president of Jilin Animation Institute, speaks at the event. [Photo/Jilin Animation Institute]

Peng Wei, vice-president of Jilin Animation Institute, said the institute has established an integrated academic system covering animation, comics, games, and digital imaging. It has consistently prioritized foundational art education, grounding its talent development in drawing skills, aesthetic appreciation, and visual storytelling.

Part of the manuscripts of classic Chinese comic strips. [Photo/Jilin Animation Institute]

Wu Lijie, a veteran animation creator and artist representing the exhibition's curatorial team, said the exhibition explores the intellectual depth and exceptional artistic techniques behind masterworks, encouraging students to draw inspiration from tradition while pursuing innovation.