KUSO signs go viral: "No Roast Duck" and "Beware of Qigong" in the GaoMei Art Museum precinct

By Intern Reporter Tsai E?ィ?酆媳ǖ技/p>

Traffic signs like "Watch for Pedestrians" and "No Right Turn" are found everywhere on streets; warning signs such as "No Smoking" and "No Eating or Drinking" are also common in public spaces. But KUSO signs that may seem nonsensical at first glance yet carry meaningful and creative messages—like "Beware of Qigong" and "Duck Tyrants Spotted"—can only be found in the Neiwei Pi Cultural Park, home to the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts (KMOFA)!

▲ The relaxed environment of the Neiwei Pi Cultural Park often attracts locals practicing qigong, prompting the installation of the "Beware of Qigong" sign. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts)

More photos of KMOFA’s fun and creative signs<<<<<<<<<Click here

The Neiwei Pi Cultural Park is centered around the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts. With its blend of art, culture, creativity, ecology, and education, it has become a popular leisure destination for southern Taiwan residents. Spanning 41 hectares, its most distinctive feature is the custom-designed creative signage tailored specifically for the park.

KMOFA launched its creative signage initiative in 2008 during its anniversary celebrations. Then-director Lee Chun-hsien aimed to promote humorous and witty KUSO signs that would not only enrich the park environment but also capture public attention and serve as effective reminders. A group of artists and museum staff collaborated to design the first batch of creative signs, which were greatly loved by visitors.

Education and Promotion Division, KMOFAHong Chin-chan noted that these creative signs are thoughtful reminders designed specifically for visitors, based on observations of common behaviors within the park.For example, the "No Wild Release" sign outside the Children’s Art Museum was installed due to frequent incidents of children getting lost. It serves to remind parents to keep an eye on their kids to prevent separation.

▲ The "No Wild Release" sign reminds parents to watch their children to avoid them getting lost. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts)

In 2012, KMOFA expanded the initiative by hosting a public "KUSO Creative Sign Design" competition, attracting 234 participants who each submitted two entries. From a final pool of 273 eligible works, one grand prize winner and four runner-ups were selected, resulting in five new signs for the park. The grand prize-winning "Beware of Upward Laughter" was created by Hsieh Yi-hsuan from Kunshan University of Science and Technology. Inspired by the park’s lush greenery and vibrant ecosystem, the designer imagined thatlaughing out loud under the open sky might lead to an unexpected bird dropping landing in one’s mouth.This thoughtful and whimsical concept adds a touch of fun for park visitors.

▲ The KUSO Creative Sign Design grand prize winner, "Beware of Upward Laughter," humorously warns visitors about potential bird droppings overhead—bursting with creativity. (Photo provided by Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts)

The Neiwei Pi Cultural Park, nestled between mountains and water, is divided into six major zones: the Art Museum Area, Sculpture Park, Ecology Park, Entrance Plaza, Children’s Art Museum, and Multi-Level Parking. In addition to its rich artistic and cultural ambiance, the park’s abundant natural ecology offers a refreshing escape for the mind and body. As you stroll through the park enjoying the lake and mountain views, don’t forget to look out for these clever, smile-inducing signs—entertaining you while reminding you to help preserve the park.

Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts

Location: No. 80, Museum Rd., Gushan District, Kaohsiung City
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and Chinese New Year’s Eve)
Contact Number: (07) 5550 331
Admission: Free for the outdoor park area