A spring warmth special exhibition “Expressive Imagery, Uplifted Spirit – Chen Shu-wen Solo Exhibition” is currently on display at the Tun District Art Center until March 9. Featuring around 50 paper clay and oil painting works, the exhibition highlights the artist’s passion for life and distinctive creative vision. Everyone is warmly invited to visit and immerse in the beauty of art and life.
The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that Chen Shu-wen, recipient of the Fervent Global Love of Lives Award from the Chou Ta-Kuan Cultural and Educational Foundation, has demonstrated remarkable perseverance and passion in her artistic journey. Despite being diagnosed with Down syndrome as a child, she has overcome developmental and physical challenges with the unwavering support of her family and teachers. Her love for art drives her to express life’s vibrancy through paintbrushes and paper clay. Through her creations, she wants to showcase the power of art, advocate for accessibility in the arts, and raise awareness of cultural equity and artistic opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The Expressive Imagery, Uplifted Spirit – Chen Shu-wen Solo Exhibition presents a collection of works shaped by the artist’s personal experiences and observations of life. Showcasing both paper clay and oil paintings, the exhibition is divided into four thematic series each offering a distinctive interpretation of the world. In the paper clay series “Blossoming Heart,” life is depicted as a flower’s journey—budding, blooming, and eventually withering. Each stage holds its own unique beauty, and by accepting these changes, one can find inner harmony. The “Good Times” clock series highlights the dual nature of time—both precious and unrelenting—while embodying the philosophy of living in the present, as embraced by individuals with Down syndrome.
Her oil painting “Phoenix” series conveys the unease and hardship experienced during the pandemic, expressing a desire to emerge stronger, like a phoenix rising from the ashes. It reflects both a hope for a more peaceful world after adversity and a new self. The “Freedom” series embodies her aspiration to become a comic artist, blending elements of fairy tales and cartoons with her own experiences and imagination. Through a whimsical yet heartfelt style, she conveys emotions of compassion, joy, sorrow, and hope, encouraging people to reconnect with their true selves. She also hopes that her work will inspire others with disabilities to bravely pursue their dreams.
According to the Cultural Affairs Bureau, Chen Shu-wen Solo Exhibition goes beyond showcasing art—it serves as a meaningful conversation about life and hope. Through the artworks, visitors can feel pure emotions, the resilience of lives, and limitless possibilities. The exhibition also echoes the values of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), advocating for lifelong learning and cultural equity. By using art as a medium for social inclusion, the exhibition helps create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in public affairs and be more widely recognized.
Chen Shu-wen lives by the motto: “Have faith in yourself and in the person you aspire to be. No matter the obstacles, keep pushing forward.” Everyone is encouraged to attend to experience her artistic expression of life and support the creative endeavors of individuals with disabilities. For more information, visit the Tun District Art Center’s website (www.ttdac.taichung.gov.tw) or Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ttdac).