Super-cute sailor meets 10 local elements – “Cute Keelung” turns the train station into a selfie hotspot

▲ The 《Cute Keelung》 themed art wall created by Koolewang. (Photo / Provided by the Cultural Affairs Bureau of Keelung City Government, the same below)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong, Taipei

Have you noticed the new look of the old Keelung Railway Station? To create an artistic and cultural space around and inside the old railway station, the Keelung City Government collaborated with illustrator Koolewang to paint a themed mural titled 《Cute Keelung》 on the exterior wall of the main entrance. Featuring local culture icons such as sailors, ships, raindrops, and black kites, the mural allows visitors to experience the vibrancy and unique charm of Keelung.

The old Keelung Railway Station, once the starting point of the Western Trunk Line of Taiwan Railways, has shifted focus from station operations to revitalizing its functions and spaces. Therefore, the Keelung City Government specially partnered with local artist Koolewang to plan a colorful 《Little Chirp’s Adventure》 themed exhibition inside. In line with the exhibition event, the 《Cute Keelung》 artwork on the main gate wall was unveiled on December 22, bringing new creative elements to both the inside and outside of the old station.

▲ Various local elements such as large ships, trains, and black kites can be seen on the art wall.

《Cute Keelung》 is composed of vibrant color blocks, curves, and cartoon characters, giving off a warm and joyful atmosphere. Each small detail is a creative touch by the artist. The cheerful and colorful design also attracts many travelers to stop and take photos.

Peng Junheng, Director of the Keelung City Cultural Affairs Bureau, said that 《Cute Keelung》 incorporates 10 major images of Keelung: sailors, the city, large ships, treasures, raindrops, big fish, luggage, black kites, railways, and docks, symbolizing the diverse cultural characteristics of Keelung. For example, the big fish represents the ecological environment, while the sailor conveys the spirit of the ocean and cheerfulness. The creator, Koolewang, is a culturally creative artist born and raised in Keelung, adding deeper local significance to the artwork.

The Keelung City Government also stated that after its completion, 《Cute Keelung》 will accompany the public through the Christmas holiday season. The 《Cute Keelung》 art wall and the 《Little Chirp’s Adventure》 exhibition will be on display until March 31, 2016. Visitors who participate in the Little Chirp photo upload event can also exchange for Little Chirp magnetic stickers.

Keelung Railway Station
Address: No. 5, Gangxi Street, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan