National Taipei University of Technology Alumnus Association Art Exhibition

Exhibition Period|2023/02/03~02/18

February 17th arrived as a warm, welcoming day, with the sun finally breaking through the skies after days of piercing winter cold. Stepping into the Arts and Culture Center at Taipei Tech to visit the Alumnus Association Art Exhibition, one is immediately struck by the fact that every single piece on display was crafted by the hands of our very own graduates. Comprising nearly eighty distinct artworks, the sheer variety of mediums offers visitors a rich visual feast spanning the entire artistic spectrum. Upon entering the gallery, the first thing to catch the eye is a deeply striking, vibrant red lacquered wood carving of the calligraphic character for "Love" (Ai). Titled "Devoted Love," the blazing red background evokes images of burning passion—mirroring how love feels in the real world. Meanwhile, the central character itself, carved in radiant gold, seems to illustrate the brilliance and light that love injects into our lives. Yet, look closer, and certain strokes of the character sprout sharp, pointed thorns. Perhaps the artist is subtly hinting that while love holds boundless beauty, many of life's deepest agonies are often born from the exact same source? It is a piece that leaves a profound impression. The exhibition also boasts an impressive selection of carvings and sculptures. Pieces featuring majestic steeds capture the hard-earned, sharply defined muscle contours of horses caught mid-gallop. Nearby, a bronze sculpture depicting a figure tightly embracing a sphere echoes its title, "Care," beautifully manifesting the intention behind the work. Each of these creations is deeply thought-provoking, uniquely charming, and leaves a lingering warmth in the mind. What personally left the deepest impression on me, however, was the abundance of calligraphy. Viewing these diverse calligraphic works enveloped by the serene atmosphere of the gallery brings a profound sense of inner peace. One piece in particular, featuring the four characters "Jing, Ren, Rang, Dan" (Tranquility, Tolerance, Deference, and Detachment), encapsulates an entire philosophy of navigating human relationships. It gently reminds us how to interact with the world to foster harmony with others, ultimately paving the way to a more liberated and fulfilling life. Beyond calligraphy and sculpture, the exhibition seamlessly incorporates fine-line gongbi painting, watercolors, ink wash, acrylics, and oil paintings. Among the numerous landscapes, the lush, sprawling branches surrounding grand trees make viewers feel as though they have stepped directly into the thriving vitality of nature. Many paintings also vividly bring to life the diverse landscapes of Taiwan. Within this collection of over eighty works, every single creation possesses its own captivating allure; to observe them closely is an unforgettable experience. This exhibition organized by the Alumnus Association has truly gifted the Taipei Tech community a spectacular visual feast. Beyond offering rare and precious art for public appreciation, it serves as an immense source of encouragement for current students. Seeing the breathtaking achievements of alumni who once walked the same halls and faced the same challenges inspires students to emulate their success. It serves as a powerful reminder that with dedication, they too will one day stand tall and shine brightly in the fields they love.

 

Performance Highlights