No.089
September 28, 2018
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. is staging an exhibition of master Taiwan sculptor Kang Muxiang’s Rebirth series as part of celebrations marking the 130th anniversary of historic Twin Oaks in Washington, D.C.
Running Sept. 20 to March 31, 2019, the exhibition features seven large-scale artworks: Ignore Me, Infinite Life, Regeneration, Ru-yi Life, Serenity, The Worried Whale and Twin Life. After the special event closes, Twin Life will become a permanent installation at Twin Oaks.
The 3.2-meter-high, 3.7-ton Twin Life is significant as it was created by Kang after a visit to Twin Oaks. It symbolizes the intertwining of peace and harmony, as well as the spirit of cooperation and friendship coursing through the Taiwan-U.S. relationship.
Kang, who draws inspiration from environmental protection and recycling, fashioned his embryonic sculptures from elevator cables once used at landmark Taipei 101. By breathing new life into the discarded steel, the series demonstrates the importance of sustainability and the ways Taiwan can help achieve the 17 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.
This is the second time for Kang to exhibit his sculptures in the U.S. His first generated widespread public interest May 17 to Sept. 18 along Broadway at Midtown’s Garment District Plazas in New York City.
The MOFA is sparing no effort in showcasing Taiwan’s artists and soft power. This commitment is boosting the nation’s image and visibility while promoting peace, stability and lasting prosperity for all.
Twin Oaks is a U.S. National Register of Historic Places-listed mansion. It served as the official residence of the nation’s Ambassadors prior to 1978, and is a showpiece of Taiwan diplomacy. (E)