The BIE
The Bureau International des Expositions (International Exhibitions Bureau) was established by a diplomatic international Convention, signed in Paris,in 1928. Its function is to regulate the frequency and quality of exhibitions falling within its remit.
This may simply be defined as covering all international exhibitions of a non-commercial nature (other than fine art exhibitions) with a duration of more than three weeks, which are officially organised by a nation and to which invitations to other nations are issued through diplomatic channels. The BIE is therefore not concerned with trade fairs and indeed the degree of commercial activity carried out at BIE exhibitions is carefully regulated.
Why does the BIE exist?
The first International Exhibition is generally considered to have been that held in London in 1851.
The success of this event produced many highly successful exhibitions throughout the world. For example, the Paris Exhibition of 1889 is well remembered for the creation of the Eiffel Tower.
But as the number of these events increased, it became clear that some measures were needed to control the frequency and quality of exhibitions. The 1928 Convention on International Exhibitions established the BIE and set out simple rules, which restricted the number of exhibitions which could be held and defined their characteristics. The original 1928 Convention has been amended by various additional protocols, but the basic framework of that Convention is still valid today.
How does the BIE work ?
The Secretariat General of the BIE, which is located in Paris, is headed by the Secretary General. The French Foreign Office carries out formal diplomatic relationships for the BIE.
Membership to the BIE -- currently comprising 140 nations -- is open to any Government by accession to the 1928 Convention and the 1972 Protocol on International Exhibitions. An annual fee is charged on a sliding scale based on United Nations principles on such contributions. However, a substantial part of the BIE's income derives from the registration fees for staging exhibitions and from a percentage of the gate money raised for that exhibition.
General Assemblies of the BIE are held twice a year in Paris under the chairmanship of the elected President of the BIE. These meetings are attended by all member states and by observers. Delegates review applications for new projects and consider reports from those exhibitions in a more advanced state. They are also attentive to reports by the four Committees, which supervise appropriate aspects of the BIE's activities. The Executive Committee assesses new projects and exercises an overview on the different aspects of exhibitions, while the Rules Committee is concerned with the detailed documentation and technical provisions of exhibitions as well as the internal rules of the BIE.
The Administration and Budget Committee and the Information and Communication Committee complete this structure. Each of the four Committees has a Chairman, who at the same time is a Vice President of the BIE, and a Vice Chairman. These eight members form a controlling body which assesses the activities of the BIE as a whole in preparation for the summer and winter General Assemblies. Committee members are elected by the General Assembly.
The registration of exhibitions
Controlling not only the frequency and quality of exhibitions but, in particular, also the conditions of participation for international participants is a continuous process carried out by the B.I.E. from the inception of a project to its close. There are three main steps an exhibition must follow in order to achieve the essential registration. Following the first formal nomination of a new project, which must specify the date of opening and closing, the theme and the legal status of the organising body, a BIE preliminary enquiry missioncarries out an on-the-spot assessment of the project. Led by a Vice President of the BIE, the enquiry team is able to request detailed information of a technical and financial nature to assist it and documentary evidence is examined.
This thorough research is the basis for a report, which is submitted to the Executive Committee for consideration and subsequently to the General Assembly for approval. If the project is successful in achieving support from these bodies, the Assembly will decide by secret balloton the "allocation of the date", that is the election of the candidate country which will host the next exhibition.
The third and final process is the registration of the exhibition on the basis of the formal review and acceptance of the General Regulations and Draft Participation Contract by the Assembly. The completion of the registration procedure (which may take three years) is marked by the awarding of the BIE flag.
This is also the point at which the Government may commence despatching invitations through diplomatic channels to other nations to participate in the event. Without registration, an exhibition cannot seek the support of the BIE Member States, which are in fact prohibited from participating in any event, which could violate the BIE Convention. Registration indicates the solemn acceptance by the host Government of its responsibility to apply and maintain the BIE's rules.By this process, the future development of international exhibitions is protected and the interests of the member states maintained.
During an exhibition, the BIE maintains its control function through the College of Commissioners General who are the representatives of a participating Government at the exhibition and an elected Steering Committee, which maintains a close liaison not only with the exhibition organisers but with the BIE.
Different categories of exhibitions
From the earliest date, the BIE has accepted the need to differentiate between two categories of exhibitions: major events which last for six months and with a theme of a general nature and shorter, more economical events, where the theme is more precise and specialised.
The two categories of exhibitions and their distinctive characteristics are as follows (more information www.bie-paris.org) :
International Registered Exhibition (or World Exhibition)
Frequency : every five years
Duration : 6 months at most
Area : not restricted
Theme : general (cf. General classification for International exhibitions)
International Recognised Exhibition
Frequency : during the interval between two International Registered Exhibitions
Duration : 3 months at most
Area : 25 ha at most
Theme : specialized
This type of event could give all nations the possibility of hosting an international exhibition.
The BIE will also continue to recognise those Horticultural Exhibitions such as the Netherlands Floriade 2002 and IGA 2003 Rostock in Germany, recommended to it by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), and the Milan Triennale, an exhibition of long standing featuring the decorative arts.
Since 1928 the BIE's work has been dedicated to identifying and refining the role of those exhibitions within its concern as a means of promoting international goodwill and of exploring the limits of human experience and knowledge.
2/19/09
Theme of EXPO Shanghai China
The theme of Expo 2010 is "Better City, Better Life," representing the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future urban environments. This theme represents a central concern of the international community for future policy making, urban strategies and sustainable development. In 1800, 2% of the global population lived in cities. In 1950, the figure raised to 29%, in 2000, almost half the world population moved into cities, and by 2010, as estimated by the United Nations, the urban population will account for 55% of the total human population.
The quest for a better life has run through the urban history of mankind. Through different sub-themes, Expo 2010 will create blueprints for future cities and harmonious urban life styles, providing an extraordinary educational and entertaining platform for visitors of all nations:
●Blending of diverse cultures in the city
●Economic prosperity in the city
●Innovations of science and technology in the city
●Remodelling of communities in the city
●Interactions between urban and rural areas
The quest for a better life has run through the urban history of mankind. Through different sub-themes, Expo 2010 will create blueprints for future cities and harmonious urban life styles, providing an extraordinary educational and entertaining platform for visitors of all nations:
●Blending of diverse cultures in the city
●Economic prosperity in the city
●Innovations of science and technology in the city
●Remodelling of communities in the city
●Interactions between urban and rural areas
Brief Introduction of World Expo Shanghai
World Expositions are galleries of human inspirations and thoughts. Since 1851 when the Great Exhibition of Industries of All Nations was held in London, the World Expositions have attained increasing prominence as grand events for economic, scientific, technological and cultural exchanges, serving as an important platform for displaying historical experience, exchanging innovative ideas, demonstrating esprit de corps and looking to the future.
With a long civilisation, China favours international exchange and loves world peace. China owes its successful bid for the World Exposition in 2010 to the international community's support for and confidence in its reform and opening-up. The Exposition will be the first registered World Exposition in a developing country, which gives expression to the expectations the world's people place on China's future development.
So what will Expo 2010 Shanghai China deliver to the world? There is no doubt the Chinese people will present to the world a successful, splendid and unforgettable exposition.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will be a great event to explore the full potential of urban life in the 21st century and a significant period in urban evolution. Fifty-five percent of the world population is expected to live in cities by the year 2010. The prospect of future urban life, a subject of global interest, concerns all nations, developed or less developed, and their people. Being the first World Exposition on the theme of city, Exposition 2010 will attract governments and people from across the world, focusing on the theme "Better City, Better Life." For its 184 days, participants will display urban civilisation to the full extent, exchange their experiences of urban development, disseminate advanced notions on cities and explore new approaches to human habitat, lifestyle and working conditions in the new century. They will learn how to create an eco-friendly society and maintain the sustainable development of human beings.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will centre on innovation and interaction. Innovation is the soul, while cultural interaction is an important mission of the World Expositions. In the new era, Expo 2010 Shanghai China will contribute to human-centred development, scientific and technological innovation, cultural diversity and win-win cooperation for a better future, thus composing a melody with the key notes of highlighting innovation and interaction in the new century.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will also be a grand international gathering. On the one hand, we shall endeavour to attract about 200 nations and international organisations to take part in the exhibition as well as 70 million visitors from home and abroad, ensuring the widest possible participation in the history of the World Expositions. On the other hand, we will put Expo 2010 Shanghai China in a global perspective and do our best to encourage the participation and gain the understanding and support of various countries and peoples, in order to turn Expo 2010 Shanghai China into a happy reunion of people from all over the world.
In addition, Expo 2010 Shanghai China will offer a wonderful opportunity for cross-culture dialogues. Before the conclusion of the Exposition, a "Shanghai Declaration" will be issued. This declaration, hopefully a milestone in the history of the World Expositions, will epitomise the insights to be offered by the participants and embody people's ideas for future cooperation and development and extensive common aspirations, thereby leaving a rich spiritual legacy of urban development to people throughout the world.
The Chinese Government will go to great lengths to make Expo 2010 Shanghai China a special event that carries on traditions and opens a new vista into the future. Our motto is: "Keeping in mind the next 60 years' development while preparing for the six months' Exposition." We count on the continuing attention, support and participation of all the peace-loving countries.
With a long civilisation, China favours international exchange and loves world peace. China owes its successful bid for the World Exposition in 2010 to the international community's support for and confidence in its reform and opening-up. The Exposition will be the first registered World Exposition in a developing country, which gives expression to the expectations the world's people place on China's future development.
So what will Expo 2010 Shanghai China deliver to the world? There is no doubt the Chinese people will present to the world a successful, splendid and unforgettable exposition.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will be a great event to explore the full potential of urban life in the 21st century and a significant period in urban evolution. Fifty-five percent of the world population is expected to live in cities by the year 2010. The prospect of future urban life, a subject of global interest, concerns all nations, developed or less developed, and their people. Being the first World Exposition on the theme of city, Exposition 2010 will attract governments and people from across the world, focusing on the theme "Better City, Better Life." For its 184 days, participants will display urban civilisation to the full extent, exchange their experiences of urban development, disseminate advanced notions on cities and explore new approaches to human habitat, lifestyle and working conditions in the new century. They will learn how to create an eco-friendly society and maintain the sustainable development of human beings.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will centre on innovation and interaction. Innovation is the soul, while cultural interaction is an important mission of the World Expositions. In the new era, Expo 2010 Shanghai China will contribute to human-centred development, scientific and technological innovation, cultural diversity and win-win cooperation for a better future, thus composing a melody with the key notes of highlighting innovation and interaction in the new century.
Expo 2010 Shanghai China will also be a grand international gathering. On the one hand, we shall endeavour to attract about 200 nations and international organisations to take part in the exhibition as well as 70 million visitors from home and abroad, ensuring the widest possible participation in the history of the World Expositions. On the other hand, we will put Expo 2010 Shanghai China in a global perspective and do our best to encourage the participation and gain the understanding and support of various countries and peoples, in order to turn Expo 2010 Shanghai China into a happy reunion of people from all over the world.
In addition, Expo 2010 Shanghai China will offer a wonderful opportunity for cross-culture dialogues. Before the conclusion of the Exposition, a "Shanghai Declaration" will be issued. This declaration, hopefully a milestone in the history of the World Expositions, will epitomise the insights to be offered by the participants and embody people's ideas for future cooperation and development and extensive common aspirations, thereby leaving a rich spiritual legacy of urban development to people throughout the world.
The Chinese Government will go to great lengths to make Expo 2010 Shanghai China a special event that carries on traditions and opens a new vista into the future. Our motto is: "Keeping in mind the next 60 years' development while preparing for the six months' Exposition." We count on the continuing attention, support and participation of all the peace-loving countries.
Haibao starts new chapter in Expo promotion
scene of the press conference when the cartoon collection is released 
the cartoon collection of World Expo 2010 mascot Haibao
A cartoon collection of World Expo 2010 mascot Haibao's adventures and tales will go on sale nationwide in May, the organizer announced yesterday.
The four-book series, the first of its kind involving the blue mascot, recounts Haibao's tales in finding four magical keys during a journey through a number of past World Expos.
The collection, created by a Taiwan cartoonist, was released to promote Expo knowledge and history in a fun and entertaining way, particularly among children, said Hu Jinjun, deputy director general of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination.
Haibao, which means treasure of the sea, has been warmly welcomed and widely appreciated since it was unveiled, Hu said, adding that it is a wonderful way to popularize Expo 2010.
Around 20 series of Haibao books are to be published this year, the organizer said.
The four-book series, the first of its kind involving the blue mascot, recounts Haibao's tales in finding four magical keys during a journey through a number of past World Expos.
The collection, created by a Taiwan cartoonist, was released to promote Expo knowledge and history in a fun and entertaining way, particularly among children, said Hu Jinjun, deputy director general of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination.
Haibao, which means treasure of the sea, has been warmly welcomed and widely appreciated since it was unveiled, Hu said, adding that it is a wonderful way to popularize Expo 2010.
Around 20 series of Haibao books are to be published this year, the organizer said.
A Creative Seminar of Expo Mascot
A lovely animal or an imaginary character, a single hero or a group of cheerful friends? Whatever kind of looking the upcoming mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai will be, it will be an image for the prosperous Shanghai and a messenger between the east and the west.
In the blooming spring, a heated discussion about the mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai took place on the cruise Princess Rose sailing along the Huangpu River.
Since the international solicitation of the Expo mascot released on January 17, the design of the Expo mascot has drawn great attention of both common people and artists.
The organizers dispatched eight teams traveling more than 40,000 kilometer home and abroad and provide a door to door promotion to over 15,000 people, asking them to submit ideas about the Expo mascot.
Widely known as something that can bring good luck, cheery, attractive and lovely mascots are always a fascinating highlight at big events such as World Expos and the Olympics.
Tracing back to the 2005 Aichi Expo, Morizo and Kiccoro, two imaginative animated forest fairies conveyed the expo theme. And other mascots in the World Expos' history like Twipsy (2000 Hanover Expo), owning a man's foot and a woman's foot together with a large hand, and Gil (1999 Lisbon Expo), named after Portuguese navigator and explorer Gil Eanes, are imaginary characters.
What bearing in designers' mind can help to create mascot representing Shanghai and China? More than 150 experts and scholars gathered here to exchange ideas on the mascot.
The organizers expect designers to provide the mascot of Shanghai Expo with innovation, globalization and sustainable development, which grows out of Chinese traditional culture and represents the trend of the modern world.
Hon Bing-wah, President of the Hong Kong Designers Association, prefers imaginative characters for they can show correspondence of the theme regardless the nationalism and regions. "The design of the mascot is for a global event, so it has to hold a global concern," said Hon.
Hon also said that the Expo mascot needs a modern appearance which could represent the core concept of World Expos -- innovation and high-technology -- and a Chinese spirit which could pass on Chinese culture to the world.
Famous Chinese designer Chen Youjian regards imagination as the key element. "Besides what we can see by our own eyes, abstract space is more important. Sometimes exquisite craftsmanship is not necessary, but abstract space for imagination is a must," said Chen.
Mi Qiu, an artist, thinks the conflicts between fashionable icons and traditional elements can be avoided by three ways: break through traditional worship and representation, cut in through the processing of urbanization or merely pursue visible beauty.
"Young artists should stand out," said Weng Ling, artist, Aldo Cibic, Domus Academy professor.
"From my points of view, the mascot is light, thin, soft and lovely. And it is the design from the kids and teenagers that could realize these feelings. They will bring us things beyond our imagination and beloved by everyone."
Daryl Joseph Moorm, dean of Montclair University Design Academy, said, "The final design of the mascot may be very close to common life. The mascot for Expo should like the constructions along the bond which leave a deep visionary impact on people. It is a hint of China and the nice life in China echoing the really good theme 'Better City, Better Life.'"
Yang Xiahui, Famous designer from Taiwan, points out that the sustainable running of the brand is as important as the instant profits from souvenirs.
The Expo mascot is unveiled at the end of 2007. And the solicitation unveils the whole vision design of the Shanghai Expo. From the color of the Expo area and pavilion to the entering ticket, whatever route a designer takes, it leads to the same destination – to create a great World Expo for Shanghai, China.
In the blooming spring, a heated discussion about the mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai took place on the cruise Princess Rose sailing along the Huangpu River.
Since the international solicitation of the Expo mascot released on January 17, the design of the Expo mascot has drawn great attention of both common people and artists.
The organizers dispatched eight teams traveling more than 40,000 kilometer home and abroad and provide a door to door promotion to over 15,000 people, asking them to submit ideas about the Expo mascot.
Widely known as something that can bring good luck, cheery, attractive and lovely mascots are always a fascinating highlight at big events such as World Expos and the Olympics.
Tracing back to the 2005 Aichi Expo, Morizo and Kiccoro, two imaginative animated forest fairies conveyed the expo theme. And other mascots in the World Expos' history like Twipsy (2000 Hanover Expo), owning a man's foot and a woman's foot together with a large hand, and Gil (1999 Lisbon Expo), named after Portuguese navigator and explorer Gil Eanes, are imaginary characters.
What bearing in designers' mind can help to create mascot representing Shanghai and China? More than 150 experts and scholars gathered here to exchange ideas on the mascot.
The organizers expect designers to provide the mascot of Shanghai Expo with innovation, globalization and sustainable development, which grows out of Chinese traditional culture and represents the trend of the modern world.
Hon Bing-wah, President of the Hong Kong Designers Association, prefers imaginative characters for they can show correspondence of the theme regardless the nationalism and regions. "The design of the mascot is for a global event, so it has to hold a global concern," said Hon.
Hon also said that the Expo mascot needs a modern appearance which could represent the core concept of World Expos -- innovation and high-technology -- and a Chinese spirit which could pass on Chinese culture to the world.
Famous Chinese designer Chen Youjian regards imagination as the key element. "Besides what we can see by our own eyes, abstract space is more important. Sometimes exquisite craftsmanship is not necessary, but abstract space for imagination is a must," said Chen.
Mi Qiu, an artist, thinks the conflicts between fashionable icons and traditional elements can be avoided by three ways: break through traditional worship and representation, cut in through the processing of urbanization or merely pursue visible beauty.
"Young artists should stand out," said Weng Ling, artist, Aldo Cibic, Domus Academy professor.
"From my points of view, the mascot is light, thin, soft and lovely. And it is the design from the kids and teenagers that could realize these feelings. They will bring us things beyond our imagination and beloved by everyone."
Daryl Joseph Moorm, dean of Montclair University Design Academy, said, "The final design of the mascot may be very close to common life. The mascot for Expo should like the constructions along the bond which leave a deep visionary impact on people. It is a hint of China and the nice life in China echoing the really good theme 'Better City, Better Life.'"
Yang Xiahui, Famous designer from Taiwan, points out that the sustainable running of the brand is as important as the instant profits from souvenirs.
The Expo mascot is unveiled at the end of 2007. And the solicitation unveils the whole vision design of the Shanghai Expo. From the color of the Expo area and pavilion to the entering ticket, whatever route a designer takes, it leads to the same destination – to create a great World Expo for Shanghai, China.
The Worldwide Mascot Selection Process
Starting from the moment that World Expo organizers released the public solicitation for the World Expo mascot on January 17, a special team of 50 people started their year-long journey to select a lovable mascot for the event.
The public selection lasted for four and half months. According to the experience of previous World Expos and Olympics, the organizers often asked designated teams to create the mascots rather than public solicitation.
The organizers of Shanghai Expo realized that it is not enough if they just rely on the media promotion for the solicitation, they should also make great efforts themselves.
The staff of the mascot selection office traveled to more than 50 cities in China and across the world. It also did a door-to-door promotion to over 80,000 people, asking them to submit ideas for the Expo mascot.
They talked with 1,500-plus designing companies, 800-plus advertising companies, 1,000-plus animation companies and 200-plus colleges, and get their support for the mascot solicitation.
It is the biggest-ever promotion campaign for the mascot solicitation in China.
The team promised to the organizers, they will receive at least 15,000 entries. But their final goal is set at 20,000.
Finally, the organisers received 26,655 entries in the worldwide design competition that ran through May 31.
Designing the mascot is harder than designing the emblem, said Song Jianming, deputy director of China Academy of Art.
"It is easy to draw 10, or even 20 emblems a day, because it's just a simple image. The mascot is different. It is much more complicated. A professional needs one month to think of one mascot."
During the nationwide promotion of the mascot selection, the team found that many people don't understand what World Expo is. In order to give an actual idea of the event, the team also promoted the World Expo history, from the first Expo 1851 in London to the latest Aichi Expo in 2005.
Since the large-scale promotion hasn't been started in China in April, many people still regard the event as an international commercial exposition. The team also explained the meaning of Shanghai Expo to the public.
Among the 26,655 entries to the Expo, the youngest person to submit an entry was only three years old, and the oldest was 83.
About seven percent of the entries are designed by children less than 10 years old. The designers are of all kinds of professions, including students, retired people, sportsmen, nurses, designers, clerks, painters, writers, teachers and actors. Nearly 70 percent of the designers are from eastern costal cities.
The organizers are proud of the selection result. With the unveiling of the World Expo mascot, the selecting and the choosing work have come to an end, but now, it is another brand-new start during the journey of the preparation for Shanghai Expo.
The public selection lasted for four and half months. According to the experience of previous World Expos and Olympics, the organizers often asked designated teams to create the mascots rather than public solicitation.
The organizers of Shanghai Expo realized that it is not enough if they just rely on the media promotion for the solicitation, they should also make great efforts themselves.
The staff of the mascot selection office traveled to more than 50 cities in China and across the world. It also did a door-to-door promotion to over 80,000 people, asking them to submit ideas for the Expo mascot.
They talked with 1,500-plus designing companies, 800-plus advertising companies, 1,000-plus animation companies and 200-plus colleges, and get their support for the mascot solicitation.
It is the biggest-ever promotion campaign for the mascot solicitation in China.
The team promised to the organizers, they will receive at least 15,000 entries. But their final goal is set at 20,000.
Finally, the organisers received 26,655 entries in the worldwide design competition that ran through May 31.
Designing the mascot is harder than designing the emblem, said Song Jianming, deputy director of China Academy of Art.
"It is easy to draw 10, or even 20 emblems a day, because it's just a simple image. The mascot is different. It is much more complicated. A professional needs one month to think of one mascot."
During the nationwide promotion of the mascot selection, the team found that many people don't understand what World Expo is. In order to give an actual idea of the event, the team also promoted the World Expo history, from the first Expo 1851 in London to the latest Aichi Expo in 2005.
Since the large-scale promotion hasn't been started in China in April, many people still regard the event as an international commercial exposition. The team also explained the meaning of Shanghai Expo to the public.
Among the 26,655 entries to the Expo, the youngest person to submit an entry was only three years old, and the oldest was 83.
About seven percent of the entries are designed by children less than 10 years old. The designers are of all kinds of professions, including students, retired people, sportsmen, nurses, designers, clerks, painters, writers, teachers and actors. Nearly 70 percent of the designers are from eastern costal cities.
The organizers are proud of the selection result. With the unveiling of the World Expo mascot, the selecting and the choosing work have come to an end, but now, it is another brand-new start during the journey of the preparation for Shanghai Expo.
Shanghai Expo unveils its mascot "Haibao"
World Expo Shanghai has chosen a "人" (people)-shaped imaginary character as its mascot. The blue little person last debuted at the unveiling gala at Shanghai Grand Stage.
The mascot "Haibao," which means the treasure of the seas, is another Expo symbol created from Chinese character following the Expo emblem in the shape of "世" (world).
With the falling of the dominoes as well as the magnificent sound and light effect, the image of Expo mascot was showed in a surprisingly eye-catching way as the organizers promised.
The licensed product of Haibao will be availed in three authorized outlets this morning in Shanghai.
As most of the mascot of World Expo, Haibao was an imaginary object which created from the Chinese character "人," meaning people. The mascot manifests a "people-oriented" sprit and tells the public "people" the foundation to build a better life, the organizers explained.
The theme of Shanghai Expo is "Better City, Better Life." The structure of Chinese character 人, in which two strokes support each other, manifests the concept that a good life should be created by all the people. The world should be supported by "people," and people should have harmonious relationships with nature and society, so that the life in cities would be better.
The image of the mascot is simple and easy to remember. Though it is a single mascot, with the different motions and costumes, it could also have various appearances, the organizers said.
The blue color represents the water, which also speaks that Haibao is from a costal city Shanghai.
The final winner is selected out of 26,655 entries from the four-month worldwide public solicitation for the mascot idea which was launch on January 17.
Instead of asking designated teams to create the mascots, like most of the other World Expos and Olympics, the organizers launched a public solicitation to hear what common people think.
The staff of the mascot selection office traveled to more than 50 cities in China and across the world. It also did a door-to-door promotion to over 80,000 people, asking them to submit ideas for the Expo mascot.
They talked with 1,500-plus designing companies, 800-plus advertising companies, 1,000-plus animation companies and 200-plus colleges, and get their support for the mascot solicitation.
Among the 26,655 entries to the Expo, the youngest person to submit an entry was only three years old, and the oldest was 83.
About seven percent of the entries are designed by children less than 10 years old. The designers are of all kinds of professions, including students, retired people, sportsmen, nurses, designers, clerks, painters, writers, teachers and actors. Nearly 70 percent of the designers are from eastern costal cities.
An 11-man selection jury chose the idea of a local designing company – Yokan Corporate Identity – to use the Chinese character as the mascot.
The 11 judges are the experts of arts, design, culture, sales and cartoon, from Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taiwan as well as Japan, Italy and Portugal, the organizers said. The whole selection process, notarized by official institutions, is objective and fair.
The revising jury led by local designer Shao Longtu then revised the original entry into the current mascot after a three-month discussion.
The mascot design was passed on the Fifth Meeting of Expo's Organizing Committee presided by Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi on September 24.
Haibao is confident, lovely, happy, witty and lively. Its hair is like the wave of the sea; its motion shows his generosity and hospitality; he thumbs up to show the appreciation and warm welcome to the friends from all over the world.
His smile manifests an optimistic spirit and a will to showcase the achievement of world's civilization. Haibao is expressing his sincere greeting from China -- "World Expo 2010 Shanghai China welcomes you!"
The mascot "Haibao," which means the treasure of the seas, is another Expo symbol created from Chinese character following the Expo emblem in the shape of "世" (world).
With the falling of the dominoes as well as the magnificent sound and light effect, the image of Expo mascot was showed in a surprisingly eye-catching way as the organizers promised.
The licensed product of Haibao will be availed in three authorized outlets this morning in Shanghai.
As most of the mascot of World Expo, Haibao was an imaginary object which created from the Chinese character "人," meaning people. The mascot manifests a "people-oriented" sprit and tells the public "people" the foundation to build a better life, the organizers explained.
The theme of Shanghai Expo is "Better City, Better Life." The structure of Chinese character 人, in which two strokes support each other, manifests the concept that a good life should be created by all the people. The world should be supported by "people," and people should have harmonious relationships with nature and society, so that the life in cities would be better.
The image of the mascot is simple and easy to remember. Though it is a single mascot, with the different motions and costumes, it could also have various appearances, the organizers said.
The blue color represents the water, which also speaks that Haibao is from a costal city Shanghai.
The final winner is selected out of 26,655 entries from the four-month worldwide public solicitation for the mascot idea which was launch on January 17.
Instead of asking designated teams to create the mascots, like most of the other World Expos and Olympics, the organizers launched a public solicitation to hear what common people think.
The staff of the mascot selection office traveled to more than 50 cities in China and across the world. It also did a door-to-door promotion to over 80,000 people, asking them to submit ideas for the Expo mascot.
They talked with 1,500-plus designing companies, 800-plus advertising companies, 1,000-plus animation companies and 200-plus colleges, and get their support for the mascot solicitation.
Among the 26,655 entries to the Expo, the youngest person to submit an entry was only three years old, and the oldest was 83.
About seven percent of the entries are designed by children less than 10 years old. The designers are of all kinds of professions, including students, retired people, sportsmen, nurses, designers, clerks, painters, writers, teachers and actors. Nearly 70 percent of the designers are from eastern costal cities.
An 11-man selection jury chose the idea of a local designing company – Yokan Corporate Identity – to use the Chinese character as the mascot.
The 11 judges are the experts of arts, design, culture, sales and cartoon, from Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taiwan as well as Japan, Italy and Portugal, the organizers said. The whole selection process, notarized by official institutions, is objective and fair.
The revising jury led by local designer Shao Longtu then revised the original entry into the current mascot after a three-month discussion.
The mascot design was passed on the Fifth Meeting of Expo's Organizing Committee presided by Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi on September 24.
Haibao is confident, lovely, happy, witty and lively. Its hair is like the wave of the sea; its motion shows his generosity and hospitality; he thumbs up to show the appreciation and warm welcome to the friends from all over the world.
His smile manifests an optimistic spirit and a will to showcase the achievement of world's civilization. Haibao is expressing his sincere greeting from China -- "World Expo 2010 Shanghai China welcomes you!"
The Name -- Hai Bao
The name of the mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China is Hai Bao, which means the treasure of the sea. The name of Hai Bao is easy to remember, echoes with the color of its body and is a typical lucky name in Chinese tradition.
Hai Bai is the good well ambassador of Shanghai Expo. He is embracing friends from all over the world with his arms and confident smile
Hai Bai is the good well ambassador of Shanghai Expo. He is embracing friends from all over the world with his arms and confident smile
Theme Manifestation of the Mascot
Cities is formed by the assembly of human beings and then evolved into an organized system, in which people are the most active and creative cells. People's life and development of the cities are closely related. With the rapid process of urbanization, the interaction between cities and the biological circle as well as the resources on the earth have become more and more strong. The relationship among people, city and earth runs through the urbanization. The three will become an inseparable complex.
People are the cells as well as the spirit of cities. People give the cities their cultures, characters and uniqueness. With the urbanization, more are more people become urban dwellers. People's life is inevitably affected by the development of cities. Cities should create a good living and innovation environment for people.
The structure and network of different cities have common views as well as their uniqueness. To understand the system and development of cities and construct a sustainable, healthy city structure is the precondition of building a livable city. It relies on people's understanding of city's developing rules as well as the rational activities in daily life.
Human being, creator of good life, is the core to push the city development as well as the most creative part in the urbanization; hence, the designing of the mascot chose the Chinese character of people to be the main image. The blue color mascot represents the elements including earth, dream, sea, future, technology and manifests the theme of World Expo "Better City, Better Life."
The image of the mascot is simple, easy to remember and to communicate. Though it is a single mascot, with the different motions and costumes, it could also have various appearances.
Water is the source of life. The main character of the mascot is water. The blue color stated Chinese brand-new gesture to embrace the world.
Hai Bao embodies ideal of the coexistence of different cultures in cities; embodies the appreciation of economic development and environmental sustainable development; embodies the wish to remodel the city communities, embodies the anticipation of the well-off both urban cities and countrysides. Hai Bao is the whish to colorful life and the warm invitation to friends from all over the world to Shanghai.
People are the cells as well as the spirit of cities. People give the cities their cultures, characters and uniqueness. With the urbanization, more are more people become urban dwellers. People's life is inevitably affected by the development of cities. Cities should create a good living and innovation environment for people.
The structure and network of different cities have common views as well as their uniqueness. To understand the system and development of cities and construct a sustainable, healthy city structure is the precondition of building a livable city. It relies on people's understanding of city's developing rules as well as the rational activities in daily life.
Human being, creator of good life, is the core to push the city development as well as the most creative part in the urbanization; hence, the designing of the mascot chose the Chinese character of people to be the main image. The blue color mascot represents the elements including earth, dream, sea, future, technology and manifests the theme of World Expo "Better City, Better Life."
The image of the mascot is simple, easy to remember and to communicate. Though it is a single mascot, with the different motions and costumes, it could also have various appearances.
Water is the source of life. The main character of the mascot is water. The blue color stated Chinese brand-new gesture to embrace the world.
Hai Bao embodies ideal of the coexistence of different cultures in cities; embodies the appreciation of economic development and environmental sustainable development; embodies the wish to remodel the city communities, embodies the anticipation of the well-off both urban cities and countrysides. Hai Bao is the whish to colorful life and the warm invitation to friends from all over the world to Shanghai.
The Main Character of the Mascot
Created from the Chinese character "," which means people, the mascot embodies the character of Chinese culture and echoes with the designing concept of the emblem of World Expo Shanghai. Using the Chinese character as the mascot of an international event is an innovation.
Hair: the hair of the mascot is like the wave of the sea, which represents its open character and stated the character of its birth place Shanghai.
Face: its cartoon expression shows its confidence and friendly character.
Eye: big, round eyes show his anticipation of the city.
Blue: the color shows its latitude and imagination, which represents the rising and potential China.
Body: its round body represents a well-off life, which is also lovely and cute.
Fist: he thumbs up to show the appreciation and warm welcome to the friends from all over the world.
Big feet: he stands steadily on the big feet and embraces the world with big arms, which shows China have the ability and faith to host a successful Expo.
The structure of Chinese character , in which two strokes support each other, manifests the concept that a good life should be created by all the people. The world should be supported by "people," and people should have harmonious relationships with nature and society, so that the life in cities would be better.
The mascot will surly become the lucky symbol and cultural remark of Shanghai Expo.
Hair: the hair of the mascot is like the wave of the sea, which represents its open character and stated the character of its birth place Shanghai.
Face: its cartoon expression shows its confidence and friendly character.
Eye: big, round eyes show his anticipation of the city.
Blue: the color shows its latitude and imagination, which represents the rising and potential China.
Body: its round body represents a well-off life, which is also lovely and cute.
Fist: he thumbs up to show the appreciation and warm welcome to the friends from all over the world.
Big feet: he stands steadily on the big feet and embraces the world with big arms, which shows China have the ability and faith to host a successful Expo.
The structure of Chinese character , in which two strokes support each other, manifests the concept that a good life should be created by all the people. The world should be supported by "people," and people should have harmonious relationships with nature and society, so that the life in cities would be better.
The mascot will surly become the lucky symbol and cultural remark of Shanghai Expo.
Designing concept of the mascot
Like the mascots for huge worldwide events such as Olympics and World Cup, the mascot of World Expo is very important for interpreting the theme and expressing the culture. The emblems and images of past World Expos have turned into the unique intangible legacy. The World Expo mascots have not only become the representatives of Expo images, but also embody the culture and spirit of hosting countries and cities.
Mascot, as the symbol featuring the hosting country, will embody the history, development, culture, concept and social background of the country and will play an important role in the communication in political, economical and cultural fields.
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China is trying to accomplish the following functions:
1. To embody the culture of the hosting country
World Expo 2010 Shanghai China is a global event that is hosted by China and undertaken by the city of Shanghai. It is the first time that a developing country will host a registered World Expo. The design of Shanghai Expo mascot must have Chinese cultural characters, state the Chinese cultural sprit and manifest that Shanghai Expo is a platform for worldwide cultural exchange. Meanwhile, the design must accord with Chinese laws and social conventions.
2. To interpret the theme "Better City, Better Life"
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China should become the unique visual logo of theme development and should be different from the existing mascot images of previous World Expos and international events in theme manifestation and designing.
The image of mascot should well express the theme of Shanghai Expo "Better City, Better Life" by using innovative ideas, impressive appearance and motions to state its concept and characters. By exploring the relationship among cities, urban dwellers and planet, the mascot must express the inner relation between heritage and future. The designing concept should be clear and unique, which coincide with the theme and easy for the public to undertand.
3. To have the value of re-creation
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China should meet the principle of "good looking, easy to understand, easy to remember and easy to use." It should also be suitable for the creation of licensed products, including stationeries, garment, souvenirs and jewelries. The mascot should be easy to be re-created in graphic, solid or electronic media.
Mascot, as the symbol featuring the hosting country, will embody the history, development, culture, concept and social background of the country and will play an important role in the communication in political, economical and cultural fields.
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China is trying to accomplish the following functions:
1. To embody the culture of the hosting country
World Expo 2010 Shanghai China is a global event that is hosted by China and undertaken by the city of Shanghai. It is the first time that a developing country will host a registered World Expo. The design of Shanghai Expo mascot must have Chinese cultural characters, state the Chinese cultural sprit and manifest that Shanghai Expo is a platform for worldwide cultural exchange. Meanwhile, the design must accord with Chinese laws and social conventions.
2. To interpret the theme "Better City, Better Life"
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China should become the unique visual logo of theme development and should be different from the existing mascot images of previous World Expos and international events in theme manifestation and designing.
The image of mascot should well express the theme of Shanghai Expo "Better City, Better Life" by using innovative ideas, impressive appearance and motions to state its concept and characters. By exploring the relationship among cities, urban dwellers and planet, the mascot must express the inner relation between heritage and future. The designing concept should be clear and unique, which coincide with the theme and easy for the public to undertand.
3. To have the value of re-creation
The mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China should meet the principle of "good looking, easy to understand, easy to remember and easy to use." It should also be suitable for the creation of licensed products, including stationeries, garment, souvenirs and jewelries. The mascot should be easy to be re-created in graphic, solid or electronic media.
Expo 2000 Hannover, Germany
Twipsy is the World Expo 2000 Hannover, Germany mascot. Twipsy is a multi-coloured creature: with a large mouth, a big nose, a plant for left arm, an human hand for right arm, a man's foot and a woman's foot.
Expo 2005 Aichi, Japan
Kiccoro ( Forest Child )
The Forest Child has only just been born. Jumping around everywhere, he's (she's) full of energy! The Forest Child wants to see and do everything! He's (she's) looking forward to making lots of friends at the Expo.
Morizo ( Forest Grand Father )
The Forest Grandfather has been living in the forest since long ago. He's an easy-going and kind old man, he has seen many things and knows everything, but he hasn't lost his curiosity. Hearing about the Expo, he's enthusiastic about lending a hand.
>> More in World Expo 2005 Aichi Official Website
Expo 2006 Ratchaphruek
Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 Mascots
Royal Flora Ratchaphruek has enlisted the help of its nine adorable mascots to help promote the event nationwide.
Team Leader Nong Khun and his companions have been on a tour around Thailand urging Thais to be proud hosts of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 -- an impressive world-class international expo of tropical flora. During the expo, visitors from Thailand and all over the world will be treated to a dazzling spectacle of over 2.5 million tropical plants representing over 2,200 species.
While on his travels, Nong Khun is accompanied by Nong Kulap representing the Queen Sirikit Rose; Nari representing the Lady's Slipper Orchid, paphiopedilum; Bua representing the lotus; Kan Yao, representing durian -- 'king' of tropical fruits; Mangkhut representing mangosteen -- 'queen' of tropical fruits; Fak Bua -- the plant watering can -- represents a boy who takes care of the plants; Chon, the Chinese radish; and Ta Thung, the scarecrow.
>> More in "Royal Flora Ratchaphruek" Official Website
Royal Flora Ratchaphruek has enlisted the help of its nine adorable mascots to help promote the event nationwide.
Team Leader Nong Khun and his companions have been on a tour around Thailand urging Thais to be proud hosts of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2006 -- an impressive world-class international expo of tropical flora. During the expo, visitors from Thailand and all over the world will be treated to a dazzling spectacle of over 2.5 million tropical plants representing over 2,200 species.
While on his travels, Nong Khun is accompanied by Nong Kulap representing the Queen Sirikit Rose; Nari representing the Lady's Slipper Orchid, paphiopedilum; Bua representing the lotus; Kan Yao, representing durian -- 'king' of tropical fruits; Mangkhut representing mangosteen -- 'queen' of tropical fruits; Fak Bua -- the plant watering can -- represents a boy who takes care of the plants; Chon, the Chinese radish; and Ta Thung, the scarecrow.
>> More in "Royal Flora Ratchaphruek" Official Website
Expo 2008 Zaragoza, Spain
Fluvi is a water creature, the Expo Zaragoza 2008 mascot. His body is semi-translucent and jelly-like.
He is a positive character, purifying, cleaning and nourishing everything he touches. It forms part of the Posis family. As it moves around quickly it gives off tiny drops of water. It is innocent, generous and kind to nature. Wherever he steps, he leaves footprints that nourish, fertilise and give life.
>> More on Zaragoza Expo 2008 Official Webiste
Haibao Nature 2 of Haibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Nature 2 of Haibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Nature 1 of Haibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Nature 1 of Haibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Hip-hop 2 of Haibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Hip-hop 2 ofHaibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Hip-hop 1 ofHaibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Haibao Hip-hop 1 ofHaibao's Video Expo Shanghai China
Expo Emblem of Shanghai China
The emblem, depicting the image of three people-you, me, him/her holding hands together, symbolizes the big family of mankind. Inspired by the shape of the Chinese character"世"(meaning the world), the design conveys the organizers' wish to host an Expo which is of global scale and which showcases the diversified urban cultures of the world.
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