On October 15, the Cross-Strait Calligraphy and Painting Art Exchange Exhibition opened in the Changning District of Shanghai, showcasing a total of 75 works that encompass themes such as renowned figures, social landscapes, urban development, the relationship between humanity and nature, classical poetry, and the historical and cultural ties between Shanghai and Taiwan.
Former chairman of the New Party, Yu Mu-ming, presented his new calligraphy piece titled “Fusion.” In an interview, he explained the significance of his work, stating, “The two characters I wrote, ‘融’ (Fusion) and ‘合’ (Combine), represent an interconnectedness and seamless cooperation. I hope to express a deeper understanding of the development and integration between both sides of the Taiwan Strait.”
Born in Shanghai in 1940, Yu moved to Taiwan with his father in 1948. He reminisced, “When I first arrived in Taiwan, I was separated from my mother, and we communicated through letters. Nowadays, letters are rare, but we can still connect through calligraphy and painting. This continues the legacy of Chinese culture.”
Liu Yan, chair of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, remarked, “The calligraphy and painting arts from both sides of the Strait share the same roots, and they are treasures of our nation’s rich traditional culture. This exhibit serves as a bridge to enhance cultural exchange.” She emphasized that such exchanges can foster understanding and mutual trust, promoting closer ties across the Strait.
Xue Yuan, Executive Vice President of the Central Taiwan Calligraphy and Painting Institute, noted that the works on display express the sentiments of the artists, reflecting their love for home, dedication to life, and commitment to art. “Using calligraphy and painting as a medium enriches the ways in which our people from both sides can connect,” he added.
During the exhibition, Taiwanese youth Xu Xi paused to reflect on the art. She shared, “Many of the techniques in these paintings inspire me greatly, and I resonate with the emotions they convey.” Pointing to a piece titled “Green House and White Clouds” by Taiwanese artist Zhang Yi-sheng, she commented on its grandeur, saying it evokes a sense of mystery and imagination, like “clouds deep within the mountains, revealing a place unknown.”
Taiwanese calligrapher Wei Yang-zhe also showcased his work, “Nostalgia.” “The author of ‘Nostalgia,’ Yu Guangzhong, was my mentor. I used the standard cursive script for this piece, and after the passing of my father this year, I felt a stronger connection to the poem,” he explained.
“I will participate in cross-strait exchange events whenever I have the opportunity. Seeing these art pieces allows me to tangibly feel the cultural connection between both sides,” Wei added. He expressed hope that through art and poetry, young people from both sides could bridge their differences and strengthen their shared heritage.
On that day, artists from both sides engaged in discussions and workshops, fostering friendships through art and literature, thereby building a bridge for continued exchanges.
The exhibition is guided by the Central Taiwan League and organized by the Central Taiwan Calligraphy and Painting Institute, Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, and the Shanghai Changning Overseas Friendship Association.
