What is the main theme of Zhang Yunzhu's exhibition in Wanhua?
The exhibition, titled 'Daydreaming,' focuses on portraying the true essence of individuals, particularly those from marginalized groups such as the homeless, sex workers, and indigenous communities. Zhang collaborates with 27 charitable organizations and creates portraits based on how the subjects want to be seen by the world.
How does Zhang Yunzhu approach her portrait subjects?
Zhang asks her subjects how they want to be portrayed and creates two portraits for each person: one based on their self-description while she is in the UK, and another after meeting them in person in Taiwan. This approach highlights the multifaceted nature of individuals.
What was the most profound response Zhang received from a subject?
A sex worker told Zhang, 'Hell will not be empty until I become a Buddha,' expressing her desire to help others in her community. This statement deeply impacted Zhang, who spent months contemplating how to visually represent this sentiment.
What does Zhang Yunzhu believe about human equality?
Zhang believes that all people are fundamentally equal, but societal inequalities obscure this truth. Her work aims to strip away labels and reveal the humanity in each individual, encouraging viewers to see people as equals rather than through the lens of societal judgments.
How does Zhang Yunzhu's art challenge societal labels?
Zhang's art challenges societal labels by focusing on the individual rather than their societal roles or status. She avoids 'selling stories' or exploiting her subjects' hardships, instead presenting them as complex human beings deserving of empathy and understanding.
What inspired Zhang Yunzhu to start her artistic journey?
Zhang's interest in understanding human nature began in childhood. She was fascinated by observing people and initially wanted to be a bus driver to encounter diverse individuals. Her academic studies in art and anatomy further deepened her exploration of human identity.
What is the significance of Zhang Yunzhu's 'at least I tried' philosophy?
Zhang's philosophy emphasizes the importance of making an effort to understand others, regardless of the outcome. She believes that even small attempts to connect with people can foster empathy and reduce societal divisions, making the world a better place.
How does Zhang Yunzhu's work address the issue of invisibility?
Zhang's portraits aim to make marginalized individuals feel seen and acknowledged. For example, a homeless subject cried when Zhang painted him, expressing that he felt invisible despite being alive. Her art validates their existence and humanity.
What cultural differences did Zhang Yunzhu experience between Taiwan and the UK?
Zhang notes that Taiwan operates at a faster pace compared to the UK, where life is slower and more structured. She also highlights the British tendency for 'passive aggression' and their emphasis on politeness, which contrasts with more direct communication styles in other cultures.
What is the role of art in Zhang Yunzhu's life?
For Zhang, art is a means of exploring and understanding human nature. She finds joy in the process of creating and believes that art allows for genuine connections between people, transcending societal labels and judgments.
- 藝術家在剝皮寮展出肖像畫
- 以弱勢族群為對象，如無家者、性工作者等
- 讓受助者決定如何被呈現
- 展現人性的多樣面貌與深刻觀察
Shownotes Transcript