A Tribute to the “Godfather of Modern Taiwanese Woodblock Printing”
The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (NTMoFA) has opened a grand retrospective exhibition dedicated to Liao Hsiou-ping (廖修平), widely regarded as the “godfather of modern Taiwanese woodblock printing.” The exhibition, which runs until June 29, 2025, celebrates Liao’s lifelong contributions to Taiwanese and international printmaking, offering visitors a rare glimpse into his artistic evolution, from his student years to his international acclaim as an artist and teacher.
This exhibition is one of the most comprehensive showcases of Liao’s work to date, featuring his woodblock prints, sculptures, oil paintings, and mixed-media pieces, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of his artistic career.
Exploring the Exhibition: A Journey Through Liao’s Artistic Evolution
The exhibition is structured into three distinct sections:
1. Liao Hsiou-ping as a Student
Liao’s early years as a student were marked by his exposure to architecture through his father and older brother, who were both architects. This influence is evident in the intricate patterns and detailed compositions found in his later works. Additionally, his childhood fascination with the ornate decorations of Longshan Temple in Taipei’s Wanhua District played a significant role in shaping his artistic sensibilities.
His formal education took him abroad, where he studied in Japan (1962) and later France (1965), where he honed his printmaking techniques at the Fine Arts Institute of Paris. His exposure to Western artistic styles and methods helped him integrate traditional Taiwanese themes into a contemporary art form.
2. Liao Hsiou-ping as an Artist
Liao’s artistic journey was not confined to Taiwan. After completing his studies, he exhibited at the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art (1969) and later moved to New York, where he expanded his artistic repertoire. His works often blended Eastern spirituality with modern aesthetics, leading to the creation of a distinctive fusion style that elevated Taiwanese woodblock printing on the global stage.
Some of his most iconic works, including his celebrated “Mandala” series, are showcased in this section, highlighting his ability to infuse Buddhist motifs and traditional Taiwanese elements with abstract, contemporary interpretations.
3. Liao Hsiou-ping as a Teacher
As a professor at National Taiwan Normal University, Liao emphasized originality and creative independence. During the exhibition’s opening ceremony, Liao reaffirmed his belief that art should be personal and unique, encouraging his students to develop their own distinct artistic voices rather than simply imitating established techniques.
Curator Hsiao Chong-ray (蕭瓊瑞) noted that Liao’s artworks evoke feelings of harmony, nostalgia, and serenity, making them timeless pieces that bridge the gap between the past and the present.
Liao Hsiou-ping’s Legacy and Influence
Liao Hsiou-ping’s influence on modern Taiwanese art cannot be overstated. He is credited with reviving and modernizing the traditional art of woodblock printing, transforming it from a historical craft into a globally recognized art form. His ability to merge Taiwanese cultural identity with contemporary artistic techniques has left an indelible mark on both the local and international art scenes.
His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, and his works are housed in major art institutions across the world, including in Taiwan, Japan, France, and the United States.
FAQs
What is the significance of this exhibition?
This exhibition serves as a comprehensive retrospective of Liao Hsiou-ping’s artistic journey, highlighting his impact on modern Taiwanese woodblock printing and his role as a mentor and innovator in the art world.
What types of artworks are displayed?
The exhibition features Liao’s woodblock prints, sculptures, oil paintings, and mixed-media works, showcasing the breadth of his artistic experimentation and development over the decades.
Where and when can I visit the exhibition?
The exhibition is being held at the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (NTMoFA) and runs until June 29, 2025.
How did Liao Hsiou-ping influence modern Taiwanese art?
Liao is credited with modernizing traditional Taiwanese woodblock printing and elevating it to an international level, incorporating elements of Taiwanese culture, spirituality, and Western abstract art.
What is Liao Hsiou-ping’s most famous work?
His “Mandala” series is among his most recognized works, known for its intricate designs and spiritual depth, combining Buddhist iconography with modern artistic techniques.
