Discover the boundless charm of oil painting as masterpieces from across the country converge in one spectacular showcase! The 23rd National Large-sized Oil Paintings Exhibition is now open until January 12, 2025, at Room A of the Taichung City Seaport Art Center. Since its inception in 2002, this exhibition has become the country's only event focusing on large-sized oil paintings, creating a close connection between art lovers and creators.

The exhibition this year featured not only renowned local oil painters but also a contest boasting a total prize pool of 600,000 NTD, with a remarkable grand prize of 250,000 NTD! In a thrilling turn, the grand prize was claimed by 19-year-old university student Li Wei-Chen, showcasing the fresh energy and creativity young artists bring to traditional oil painting. His piece, Between the Real and the Transcendent, uses a style that transcends realism. Through symbolic imagery like a deer head and a gas mask , it delves into the contrast and coexistence of reality and ideals.

The second prize went to The Sun and Moon in My Heart—Shangri-La by Lin Kwun-Mau, a stunning portrayal of majestic natural scenery that conveys a deep longing for peace and harmony. The third prize-winning work, Dreamscape：A Fusion of Fantasy by Gu Dong-Syuan, merges the realms of dreams and reality, capturing the subtle interplay of longing and anxiety for childhood. Other outstanding entries include High School Girl Model by Liang Chung-Yi and Youth by Huang Bo-Ching, which offer profound reflections on modern social phenomena and life experiences, inviting viewers to find resonance in each painting.

Showcasing 48 competition entries and 49 invited works, the exhibition spans generations, with artists ranging from 19 to 89 years old. The displayed pieces, diverse in style, reflect these artists’ profound exploration and perception of life. Through large-sized works, they bring vibrant colors and designs to life.

Director Chen Chia-Chun of Taichung's Cultural Affairs Bureau noted art is not only a reflection of human culture but also an expression of one’s soul. The National Large-sized Oil Paintings Exhibition bridges the heritage of traditional oil painting with the diverse creative concepts of contemporary art. Using expansive “size 100” canvases as a medium, the event challenges artists to push their technical and creative limits. This event not only highlights the historical significance of oil painting but also encourages creators to explore new forms of expression within traditional media.

Wu Lung-Jung, chair of this year’s judging panel, remarked on the immense challenges of creating large-sized oil paintings, which demand exceptional emotional investment and creative effort from the artists. After a thorough selection process, 49 remarkable works were chosen, showcasing the diversity of modern oil painting. These works not only demonstrate the artists' mastery of technique but also convey their deep reflections on life and society.

Hosted in Room A at the Taichung City Seaport Art Center, this two-month exhibition warmly invites art lovers and visitors to immerse themselves in this feast for the eyes and soul. For detailed information, please visit the official website of the Seaport Art Center (https://tcsac.taichung.gov.tw/) or check out its Facebook page. Let’s step into the world of oil painting and explore the boundless possibilities of art together!