The “Formosa Exhibition”, which consists of 26 pieces of works of printmaking by 16 renowned Taiwanese artists, opened in Jurmala City Museum on October 19, 2016. The opening ceremony was jointly hosted by the exhibition coordinator Prof. Janis Murovskis, prominent artist and professor of Department of Visual Arts at the Latvia University and Ms. Inta Baumane, Director of Jurmala City Museum. Representative Wu Rong-chuan of the Taipei Mission in the Republic of Latvia was present among more than 100 guests, including government officials from Riga, officials of Jurmala City Government, artists and journalists.
In his opening speech, Representative Wu attributed the matured civil society in Taiwan to the political and historical developments of Taiwan, including migration of the Han Chinese to Taiwan in the 14th century, occupation of Taiwan by Europeans, ceding to Japan in the turn of 20th century, evacuation to Taiwan of two million people from different provinces of Chinese Mainland in 1949, and massive influx of 500,000 foreign spouses and 500,000 foreign workers to Taiwan in the past two decades. With the successful economic and political reforms since 1960s, Taiwan has formed a mature and diverse civil society. Representative Wu also noted that the cross-strait relations are based on the principles of mutual non-recognition of sovereignty and mutual non-denial of jurisdiction, with which Taiwan will continue to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The famous Taiwanese alcoholic drinks-Kaoliang and Kavalan whisky were presented to the guests for their degustation.
Prof. Murovskis told guests of his visit to Taiwan two years ago and his acquaintance with the outstanding artist Mr. Huwang Yue-sheng, President of the Taiwan Society of Printmaking, with which the Formosa Exhibition was initiated and realized. He also shared with the guests his impression about Taiwan’s robust economy and vibrant society.
Many of the artists present expressed their high interest in cultural exchanges with Taiwanese artists. Ms. Iveta Kelpe, Head of Foreign Affairs and Protocol Unit of Jurmala City Council requested Representative Wu to help invite those interested in Taiwan to participate in the painting competition at the beginning of 2017 organized by Jurmala City Council. Representative Wu also invited Latvian school children to participate in the World Children’s Painting Competition in Taiwan.
The Exhibition will last until November 6, 2016, with beautiful complimentary catalogues provided.