TAIPEI (Taiwan News) —Taiwanese architectural artist K.B. Izac Tsai (蔡可柏) recently debuted his latest spatial installation work, "Stained Glass/The Color in Me," in Norwich, United Kingdom.
"Stained Glass" is the first part of Tsai's series. He collaborated with Norwich University, drawing inspiration from the stained glass windows of St, Peter Hungate’s chuch, according to CNA.
The second part, "The Color in Me," is a collaboration with Taiwanese choreographer Chou Shu-yi (周書毅). Chou's dance performance interacts with the colors and lights of Tsai's installation, challenging the boundaries of traditional space.
"Stained Glass" explores themes of self-identity and the human experience within historic structures. It aims to deconstruct traditional notions of a sacred space.
While inspired by stained glass and religious spaces, the work also addresses the suppression of queer identity within religious and Western historical contexts. The word "stain" can also carry a negative connotation, reminding Tsai of homophobic slurs.
Tsai incorporated the 11 colors of the Pride flag into his work. He linked it to issues of gender, LGBTQ+ identity, and politics.
“The Color in Me” live performances were held on June 21 and 22. Chou said that although the church no longer functions as a religious space, he can still feel its tranquility.
The performance offered an opportunity to explore the potential for dialogue between architectural space, installation art, and the human body. Chou said he believes the work transcends issues of gender equality, representing a broader concept of universal equality.
Having known Tsai for a long time, Chou expressed excitement about their collaboration. While Taiwan is considered a leader in promoting gender equality within Asia, the limitations placed on homosexuality within a U.K. church also served as a source of inspiration.
Part three of the series will be presented as a film by Hong Kong’s Dorothy Cheung (張紫茵). Finally, Tsai will provide an audio-narrative conclusion to the story in part four.
