several national treasures and significant historic artifacts as part of the exhibition &ldquoThe Formosa Era &ndash The Enlightenment of Modern and Contemporary Taiwanese Art.&rdquo Taking place at Museum Building 2, the exhibition revisits a century of Taiwan&rsquos modern and contemporary art development and highlights Tainan&rsquos key role as the cultural heart of Taiwan. Through this exhibition, visitors can gain deeper insights into Taiwan&rsquos art history and cultural roots, reinforcing the museum&rsquos mission as a national-level cultural institution.

A Century of Artistic Brilliance in the &ldquoFormosa Era&rdquo

Since the Dutch arrival in Anping, Tainan in 1624, the city has been shaped by various political regimes and cultural influences, gradually developing its unique local aesthetics and cultural identity. Through eight thematic sections, the exhibition presents Taiwan&rsquos artistic evolution over the past century. It also reflects the transformation of modern art under various socio-political backgrounds, aiming to rekindle public awareness, appreciation, and identification with local culture&mdashwhile emphasizing Tainan&rsquos historical and cultural significance in this process.

Selected Collections and Works by Renowned Artists

The exhibition covers a wide range of art styles and movements, from the Japanese colonial period to post-war Taiwan, addressing themes such as local color, national identity, and modernity. It explores how Taiwanese art evolved under both local and foreign influences, shaping its distinctive artistic identity. Highlighted masterpieces include Chen Cheng-po&rsquos never-before-seen &ldquoMount Putuo in the South Sea,&rdquo Huang Tu-shui&rsquos &ldquoNectar Water,&rdquo and Chang Dai-chien&rsquos &ldquoMount Lu,&rdquo among other precious artifacts. These works not only represent milestones in Taiwan&rsquos art history but also reflect the creativity and social reflections of the artists during their respective periods.

Selected collections and works by prominent artists (Image: Tainan Art Museum, TOCO Magazine)

Immersive Experience of Modern Taiwanese Art

One of the exhibition halls features an immersive audio-visual installation that transforms the iconic works of Taiwanese art pioneers&mdashincluding Chen Cheng-po, Kuo Po-chuan, Lee Mei-shu, Lin Yu-shan, and Hsu Wu-yung&mdashinto panoramic visuals. This setting allows visitors to experience the artistic atmosphere and stylistic expressions of the time in an engaging and immersive way.

Step Into the World of Master Artists

Through high-resolution projections, dynamic visuals, synchronized music, and interactive floor sensors, visitors can literally &ldquostep into&rdquo the paintings. This multisensory experience lets them closely appreciate brushstrokes, colors, and composition, while also interacting with the artists' creative spirit. More than just a visual treat, the exhibit merges technology and culture to offer a powerful journey into the achievements of modern and contemporary Taiwanese art.Step into the world of master artists (Image: Tainan Art Museum, TOCO Magazine)

A Grand Opening Filled with Visionarie

The exhibition officially opened on March 25 with the presence of key curators and guests. Professor Pai Shih-ming, the curator, expressed hope that the exhibition will help audiences understand the historical development and richness of Taiwanese art. Tainan Art Museum Chairperson Yu Wen-mei emphasized that this is not just an art exhibition but also an important moment of cultural inheritance. She extended gratitude to all supporting organizations for making this cultural event possible.

A Chapter Where Culture Meets Art

&ldquoThe Formosa Era &ndash The Enlightenment of Modern and Contemporary Taiwanese Art&rdquo will unfold in three phases, exploring the creative development from the Japanese colonial period to the early post-war era and its impact on global art movements. This exhibition is not only a visual journey but also a path to deeper understanding and cultural awakening. All art lovers are warmly invited to witness this profound intersection of history and art.

&ldquoThe Formosa Era &ndash The Enlightenment of Modern and Contemporary Taiwanese Art&rdquo

Exhibition Period: March 25, 2025 &ndash July 6, 2025
Venue: Tainan Art Museum Building 2, Galleries A&ndashI
Official Website: https://www.tnam.museum/exhibition/detail/595

This article is authorized for use by Toko Life Magazine.