Natural Stone Elegance: 2011 Hualien International Stone Sculpture Art Festival

By Chi Binghui, compiled and reported

 

Taiwan boasts abundant ecological resources and diverse landforms, leaving people in awe of nature’s masterful craftsmanship. The beauty of Hualien’s mountains and waters has long been admired worldwide. Since 1995, an international stone sculpture art festival has been held here every two years, attracting artists from around the world to participate. The 9th edition of the festival in 2011 will take place from October 1 to October 30, featuring a cumulative total of 117 large outdoor stone sculptures created by artists from 26 countries, standing proudly across Hualien’s valley, coastline, and bays.

This year’s stone sculpture festival is themed “Natural Stone Elegance,” striking a balance between fashion, art, and Hualien’s simple and natural local charm. Beyond witnessing the extraordinary collaboration between nature and sculptors in shaping stone elegance, there will also be a variety of performances showcasing diverse styles, including artistic troupes with ethnic flavors from both home and abroad, renowned music and dance groups, and local performance teams. Whether under a starry night sky or within the elevated realm of song and dance in performance halls, the October stone elegance stage promises an extraordinary artistic evening, immersing you in the slow and leisurely pace of Hualien.

On the outdoor stage during the opening day, under the evening starlight, special invitations have been extended to Japan’s Kodo (ZAONDEKOZA), Oriental Wings Creative Music Troupe, and Taipei Extreme Drummers to perform, guaranteeing a dazzling array of performances in different styles. On October 2, 15, and 16, there will also be several children’s theater performances. The public is welcome to join in the festivities in Hualien.

 

Hualien County Cultural Affairs Bureau: www.hccc.gov.tw/Portal/?lang=0