Libraries aren’t boring—art galleries bring art to every corner

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

 

Organized and hosted by the volunteer team of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, the “Culture Around the Corner—Art Express” initiative used libraries across Taipei’s districts as its main bases to spread the seeds of art in 2011. Since the beginning of the year, it has successfully held 19 events, with nearly 720 participants in total. It is expected to complete a total of 27 events for the entire year by the end of this year. The events require no reservation and are free to attend. The most recent event will take place on the 26th from 14:30 to 16:00 at the Jiancheng Branch of the Taipei Public Library, featuring an appreciation session (Taiwanese Art) of works from the museum’s collection and a DIY activity.

The “Culture Around the Corner—Art Express” initiative has been organized by the TFAM volunteer team since 2007 in neighborhoods across Taipei, aiming to promote art education among the general public. Through interactive experiences and multimedia video presentations, it introduces the museum’s fascinating exhibitions and rich collection of artworks. It also incorporates various DIY art activities such as sandpaper painting, figurine making, creative puzzles, and paper-cutting cards. These not only provide educational entertainment for children and adults alike in different districts, but also offer a meaningful experience—almost like an art delivery service—to audiences who usually lack the time or opportunity to visit an art museum, especially disadvantaged groups and residents in remote areas, bringing the beauty of art to streets and alleys.

Since its establishment, the TFAM volunteer team has grown to include more than 900 members. In 2010, it was honored with the Taipei City 14th “Golden Diamond Award” for Outstanding Teams and the 17th National Outstanding Cultural Volunteers Group Award from the Council for Cultural Affairs. In addition to serving northern regions, in April 2010, the team traveled to Linbian Township in Pingtung County to interact and share the beauty of art with schoolchildren affected by Typhoon Morakot. For two consecutive years (2010 and 2011), a team of senior guide volunteers also visited the outlying island of Matsu to hold art appreciation lectures. For more details, please call 02-2595-7656 extension 321 and ask for Mr. Wu.