A new chapter is beginning for BolognaFiere’s activities in Shanghai and Asia through BolognaFiere China. The latter is the group’s subsidiary for promoting commercial relations throughout the Asian market, organising numerous events in various sectors. These include the China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair.
This new phase builds on the sixty years of experience of the Illustrators Exhibition, the flagship event of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair https://www.bolognachildrensbookfair.com/home/878.html, recognised globally as the leading professional platform in the illustration sector. Since its foundation, the exhibition has promoted international exchange and the professional growth of generations of illustrators through selections curated by juries of excellence, catalogues and travelling exhibitions around the world.
BolognaFiere in Shanghai: a new platform for professional exhibition and exchange
The first edition of the Shanghai Illustration & Pop Show (SIPS) will be held from 29 to 31 May 2026 at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre. Organised by BolognaFiere China, with the support of the Shanghai International Culture Association and the Cultural Office of the Consulate General of Italy in Shanghai, and the scientific collaboration of the Bologna Illustrators Exhibition and Mimaster Illustrazione.
The new event aims to offer brands, agencies, buyers, collectors and illustrators from China and Asia a shared platform for professional exhibition and exchange dedicated to illustration (not only related to the world of children but all-round) and pop culture.
A highly dynamic ecosystem
BolognaFiere in Shanghai – https://bolognafiere.it/ – with the Shanghai Illustration & Pop Show exhibition, which is expected to attract over 300 exhibitors from 10 countries and regions, including brands, studios and independent creators, is divided into three themed sections. Starting with Illustration as Art, which showcases illustration in contemporary art with works and collaborations by artists. Pop and Brand explores the role of visual storytelling in fashion, designer toys and lifestyle. Finally, Illustrators Avenue is dedicated to independent artists from around the world, in direct contact with the public and the market. Together, the three sections outline a vibrant ecosystem in which illustration flourishes between art, commerce and everyday life.
BolognaFiere has an extensive programme of events in Shanghai, including “The Illustrators Survival Corner”, a project by Bologna Children’s Book Fair that has become famous worldwide, curated by Mimaster Illustrazione, with masterclasses.
