The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (NTMoFA) has launched the online exhibition "Historical Sites in the Eyes of Hsi Te-chin," featuring 215 iconic architectural sketches by the renowned artist Hsi Te-chin. This exhibition employs AI visual computation to provide an up-close view of brushstrokes and intricate details, allowing audiences to delve into Taiwan's rich traditional architecture through the eyes of the artist.
A Keen Observer of Taiwan&rsquos Traditional Architecture
Hsi Te-chin moved to Taiwan in 1948 and developed a deep appreciation for its landscapes and cultural heritage. His distinctive artistic style blended traditional elements with local characteristics. After returning from his artistic studies in Europe in 1966, Hsi Te-chin devoted himself to exploring and documenting Taiwan&rsquos old streets and traditional buildings, producing a vast collection of works that not only preserve Taiwan&rsquos historical sites but also reflect his profound affection for rural culture and his dedication to architectural conservation.
This exhibition is divided into three main themes: Evolution of Artistic Styles,Interpretation of Architectural Paintings, and Perspectives on Traditional Preservation. (Image provided by NTMoFA)
Hsi Te-chin left behind a substantial collection of architectural paintings and written records. However, a comprehensive, map-based study of his work had been lacking. The "Historical Sites in the Eyes of Hsi Te-chin" exhibition revisits his diaries and interviews with Weng Zu-liang, a close friend from the Hangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, to present a fuller picture of his observations and studies on Taiwan&rsquos architectural culture.
In-Depth Analysis of His Artistic Vision and Details
The exhibition focuses on Hsi Te-chin&rsquos architectural-themed artworks, illustrating his dedication to preserving Taiwan&rsquos cultural heritage. His artistic process&mdashfrom conceptualization to on-site sketching&mdashdemonstrates his strong commitment to capturing the essence of historical sites.
The paintings are categorized into three main themes:
- 1.Evolution of Artistic Style
- 2.Interpretation of Architectural Painting
- 3.Perspectives on Traditional Conservation
To offer deeper insights into Hsi Te-chin&rsquos creative journey, the exhibition invites Professor Li Qian-lang, one of Hsi Te-chin&rsquos close colleagues, as a curator and commentator.
Viewers can closely appreciate the details of ancient architecture, brushstrokes, and color variations in the paintings while interacting with the artworks. (Image provided by NTMoFA)
Immersive Experience with AI Visual Computation
By leveraging AI-driven visualization technology, the exhibition transcends time and space, utilizing interactive design and digital presentation techniques to bring Hsi Te-chin&rsquos art to life. Visitors can zoom in on brushwork details, explore intricate textures and color variations, and interact with the artworks, further experiencing the vitality and cultural depth of Taiwan&rsquos historical sites as depicted by the artist.
The "Historical Sites in the Eyes of Hsi Te-chin" online exhibition is now officially available. We invite audiences to embark on this artistic journey, immersing themselves in Hsi Te-chin&rsquos vibrant historical landscapes and witnessing the enduring beauty of Taiwan&rsquos traditional architecture.
This article is republished with permission from La Vie.
