Naturally "Stone" Chic: The 2011 Hualien International Stone Sculpture Art Festival

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

This year’s stone sculpture festival is themed “Natural Stone Chic,” striking a balance between fashion, art, and Hualien’s simple and natural local culture. Aside from witnessing how nature and sculptors collaborate to carve out stone chic in Hualien, there will also be a variety of performances showcasing diverse styles, including art 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 artistic halls where performances reach new heights, the stone chic stage this October promises to bring you a unique artistic evening and accompany you as you immerse yourself in the slow and leisurely pace of Hualien.

On the outdoor stage on the opening day, under the evening starlight, special invitations have been extended to Japan’s ZAONDEKOZA (Kodō), Oriental Wings Creative Music Ensemble, and Taipei Extreme Drummers to perform, guaranteeing a dazzling array of performances in various styles. On October 2, 15, and 16, there will also be multiple children’s theater performances—everyone is welcome to join in the festivities in Hualien.

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