Libraries aren’t boring anymore—The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts brings art to every corner!

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

"Culture Is Right Around the Corner – Art Express Delivery," planned and hosted by the volunteer team of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, has used libraries across Taipei as its main hubs to spread the seeds of art since 2011. From the beginning of the year up to now, 19 successful events have been held, attracting nearly 720 participants in total. It is expected that a total of 27 events will be completed by the end of this year. No reservation or fee is required to join the activities. The latest 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 collected works and a DIY activity.

"Culture Is Right Around the Corner – Art Express Delivery" has been organized by the volunteer team of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts since 2007 in neighborhoods across Taipei, aiming to promote art education among the general public. Through interactive experiences and multimedia videos, it introduces the museum’s fascinating exhibitions and rich collection of artworks. In addition, it features a variety of hands-on art activities such as sandpaper painting, figurine making, creative puzzles, and paper-cutting cards. These not only provide fun and educational experiences for children and adults alike but also bring tangible artistic experiences and sharing—like an art delivery service—to audiences who usually lack the time or opportunity to visit museums, especially disadvantaged groups and residents in remote areas, spreading the beauty of art to streets and alleys.

Since its establishment, the volunteer team of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts has grown to include more than 900 members. In 2010, it was honored with the Taipei City 14th "Golden Diamond Award" for Outstanding Team and the 17th National Outstanding Cultural Volunteer 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 with schoolchildren in the Morakot typhoon disaster area through the beauty of art. For two consecutive years (2010 and 2011), a team of experienced volunteer guides also visited the offshore island of Matsu to hold art appreciation lectures. For details, please call Mr. Wu at extension 321, 02-2595-76565.