On the morning of June 27, at Rio de Janeiro State University, the S-shaped display platform slowly unfurled to reveal over 50 creative pieces from Dongguan's thriving art toy industry. The See You in Guangdong: Lingnan Cultural Innovation Exhibition, part of the BRICS Edition of the Dialogue of Civilizations Series, officially opened, drawing nearly a thousand guests and students. In the heart of Brazil, Dongguan's art toy stole the spotlight.

This vibrant cultural event, guided by the State Council Information Office of China and Brazil's Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro, was co-hosted by the Information Office of the Guangdong Provincial Government and Nanfang Media Group. The China Intercontinental Communication Center and Rio de Janeiro State University also helped in the organization, with the Information Office of the Dongguan Government as a key supporter.

Dongguan's art toy hits Rio

The event kicked off with flair. Five models descended the steps in elegant Xiangyunsha cheongsams, each holding signature Dongguan art toys, 3D metal puzzles of traditional lanterns and Laura dolls from popular brands like TOYCITY. As a live orchestra performed a BRICS-themed melody, cameras flashed and the crowd swarmed the stage.

At the "Aesthetic Manufacturing" display zone, traditional Chinese motifs came to life through intricate metal puzzles of one-thousand-angle lanterns, lion dances, bridal sedan-chairs and phoenix crowns. Playful characters like Laura and Mr. PA charmed the younger crowd, while the "Dream-Eater" series, inspired by the ancient Classic of Mountains and Rivers, piqued curiosity about Chinese mythology.

Plush toys from Chinese brand HAYDAI, one shaped like a roast goose and another inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, proved to be a hit at the exhibition, drawing in students eager to interact and take photos. Even former Brazilian football star Carlos Roberto and ITTF Vice President Alaor Azevedo couldn't resist stopping to interact with the exhibits.

Roberto was particularly drawn to a mini replica of the FIFA World Cup Trophy, an official licensed product from the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Rio, proudly manufactured by a Dongguan-based company Wagon. "This World Cup souvenir is beautifully made. It's a symbol of victory and the spirit of football," he said. "I'm especially proud to know it was produced in Dongguan, China. Excellent work!"