Tintin and Herge Exhibition
At my friend’s strong recommendation, I went to see the exhibition on “Tintin and Herge” at the Power Station of Art in Shanghai. I have read the Tintin comic strips when I was a kid, but haven’t thought much about it since. However, this time around, I learned about who the creator George Remi (aka Herge, 1907-1983) was, how and why he developed this character, and how this comic series had since its inception been translated into over 70 languages, sold over 200 million copies worldwide, and remained popular even 100 years later.
The “Tintin and Herge” exhibition taught me a great deal about what makes a timeless masterpiece. It was Herge’s ability to integrate his values, curiosity, and adventurous spirit as a boy scout into his storyline’s main character Tintin as well as the other supporting characters that made The Adventures of Tintin series so inspirational, fun to read, and moving. It was the author’s personal touch, observations, aspiration, diligence, and endless effort to present the best of his values and standards that made his work so unique, so human. Salut to Mr. George Remi!
We all have our own way of presenting our thoughts and imaginations. Some people prefer writing, some prefer music, some through visual arts, some through dances, etc. Herge’s comic creations were done through a combination of his multi-talents in writing, drawing, and cinematography. My favorite creative means to communicate are through music and paintings. What are yours?
Photos by Irene Chang Studio