Not just a picture book
The Humpback Whale House’s mission is to offer an in-depth introduction to Taiwanese artists. Each season, it invites a picture-book illustrator to exhibit, and during that period, his or her works are the inspiration for activities. Prior to the exhibition, a storyteller narrates the tale before an audience, after which the creative concept behind the story is analyzed in depth. The illustrator is also invited to share his or her experience, and then a series of themed activities is put on.
The first illustrator to exhibit was Chang Hsiu-yu, one of the few artists in Taiwan to create picture books using woodblock prints. Her works, such as Dad’s Friendly Tea Garden and Grandpa’s Glass Shop, are full of love for Taiwan. This exhibition was designed around The Grandmother’s Lantern Tree, a story about sun-drying persimmons set in Hsinchu’s Xinpu Township. The tale revolves around An’an, a city-bred child who returns to his paternal grandmother’s place to help process the persimmons. From initially resisting country life, to the point where he recognizes the affection his grandmother holds for him, and the goodwill present in interactions between neighbors, we sense rustic simplicity and warmth.
During Chang’s presentation, everyone sat around on the floor listening to the tale of a lantern tree, named after its paper-thin fruit capsules that resemble a Chinese lantern. Then the artist explained how woodblock prints are produced, and lastly, each member of the audience got a chance to experience how to make one.
In the moment when the children lifted up the prints they had created with their own hands, delight and a sense of accomplishment showed on their faces.
“I hope to operate a space where Taiwan’s artists can be seen, and the best way to be seen is through interaction with an audience,” says Corn Chen.
In mid-May, Chang Yu Jan’s illustrated works will take the stage at Humpback Whale House. Thanks to his highly detailed style, the beauty of Taiwan’s mountain forests is captured in his picture books, such as The Forest Where Spring Fairy Dances and Siraya Boy. His newest work, The Little Blue Dress, will be the inspiration for a hands-on indigo print workshop.
Storytelling time: Everyone is welcome to join in the fun at Humpback Whale House.