TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Old-time elegance with Taiwanese flavoring is on offer at the steampunk-inspired Dannior Gallery booth.

Run by full-time artist Daniel Lin (林詠遴), his booth is tucked away in a corner at this week's Taipei International Comics and Animation Festival. His wares are somewhat off the beaten path from the convention’s anime and comics booths, but have found a home. 

“I started this brand about six years ago,” Lin explained, adorned in Victorian-inspired clothing. “But I’ve been drawing for more than 10 years.”

Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction. Inspired by Europe’s Industrial Revolution, the style focuses on futuristic machines not powered by electricity but steam.

“Steampunk is both a style and a way of life,” Lin explained. “In a fast-paced era, it embodies the ability to overcome life’s challenges through creativity and invention, all while maintaining a gentlemanly elegance that best represents its timeless appeal.”

In one corner, Daniel’s assistant, Sung Hsin-hua (宋信樺) sells jewelry and clothing accessories. Each necklace and bowtie are handcrafted in steampunk or Victorian style.

In another corner, Lin sells the “Taiwan Mafia” postcard series, his best seller. The series combines a love for animals, mafia styling, and introduces Taiwanese birds in an interesting way.

Lin said the series is drawn using a digital tablet, but its lines and style resemble traditional art. He said he hopes people can enjoy steampunk and raise awareness for Taiwan’s endemic birds.

According to Chinese Animation and Comic Publishers Association head Su Wei-chuan (蘇偉銓), the convention is expected to draw 480,000 visitors and generate NT$250 million (US$7.6 million) in revenue. The festival will last from Thursday to Monday and is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.