TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The exhibition “Beyond Reality” explores the possibilities of architecture in contemporary society by inviting architects to present their work at Taipei National University of the Arts until Sept. 28.
Curator Wang Chun-hsiung (王俊雄) said Taiwanese society has undergone dramatic transformations over the past 25 years, with urban and rural landscapes constantly being reshaped. He added that the social atmosphere during this period has oscillated between optimism and despair, per CNA.
Wang said architecture is no longer only about space and form but must also respond to the multiple realities of politics, the economy, and culture. To illustrate his point, architects and their teams have been selected to present works created since 2000. Their projects span the private and public sectors and both reflect Taiwan’s transformations over the past quarter century and offer new perspectives for the next generation of architects.
Architect Lee Wen-sheng (李文勝) weaves together everyday dualities, such as the compression of urban space juxtaposed with the openness of nature. He also contrasts the tranquility of monasteries with the chaotic, organic flow of neighborhoods.
Architect Hsiao Li-ren (蕭力仁) asks, “Where do we come from? Where do we go?” His exhibition connects memory, reflection, and collective consciousness across generations, from historical family homes to contemporary housing, while highlighting future spatial trends.
Chueh Ho-ping’s (闕河彬) exhibition “Between Reality and Void” explores the interweaving of the real and virtual worlds. By examining six facets of urban life—food, clothing, housing, transportation, education, and entertainment—it redefines how architecture can serve as a dynamic interface between the private and public spheres. Chueh said “virtual space” offers new opportunities for social interaction.
“A Trilogy of Public Life” by Day Jia-hui (戴嘉惠) and Lin Hsin-ping (林欣蘋) condenses practical experience in public architecture into three chapters: “Policy—Design—Life.” It shows how public space is transformed from policy into design practice.
“Beyond Reality” is on display on the third floor of Taipei National University of the Arts’ Center of Art and Technology until Sept. 28. Lectures will be held every Saturday, with architect-led tours offered every Sunday.
