Creative Expo Taiwan dives into culture with immersive water theme
臺灣文博會（Creative Expo Taiwan）以沉浸式水主題深入文化
| TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Creative Expo Taiwan is being held from Aug. 2–11 at Taipei’s Songshan Cultural and Creative Park and Nangang Exhibition Center.
With the theme “Water Scapes,” the expo’s cultural curation section offers an immersive, multi-sensory experience exploring Taiwan's unique water culture through a variety of exhibits, curated goods, and interactive events. The Ministry of Culture said that after last year's event in Tainan drew large crowds, this year’s expo has returned to Taipei with a record number of participants and expanded scale. Organizers expect attendance to reach 650,000 visitors. At Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, the central landmark Water Pavilion stands as the expo's spiritual core. Constructed from farm scaffolding and fishing rope, its floating woven structure reflects the event's theme and symbolizes Taiwan’s island identity and vital connection to water. Visitors can explore four main exhibition areas, each offering a unique perspective on Taiwan’s relationship with water. The Island Embraced by the Sea exhibit delves into Taiwan’s identity as a maritime nation. A mix of videos, large-scale woven installations, works by seven artists and photographers, and nearly 40 books captures the deep bond between islanders and the ocean. The Realm of the Mists transports visitors into Taiwan’s high-altitude cloud forests. With simulated forest scents and environments, guests experience the raw natural beauty of the mountains before water even forms. This section also highlights the key role these mist forests play in supporting Taiwan’s renowned tea industry. The Spirit of the River Pavilion explores the cultural significance of rivers, including the beliefs and legends of Indigenous, Pingpu, and Han communities. Attendees can take part in a water lantern activity, underscoring the spiritual and cultural heritage of water. The Liquid Landscapes of Taiwan departs from the traditional single-county model by bringing together local specialties from all 22 counties and cities. The exhibit showcases 102 culturally significant products described as the “most Taiwanese and beautiful,” each reflecting local life and the connection between “one water, one land, one people.” The National Taiwan Craft Research and Development Institute also presents a curated craft shop, Daily+, featuring more than 400 items from 70 top Taiwanese craft brands. The collection emphasizes how quality handmade goods can be integrated into everyday life and inspire a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship. Beyond the exhibits, the expo offers interactive experiences. Visitors can collect stamps from partner vendors and redeem them for limited-edition gifts, adding a fun, hands-on element to the cultural immersion. |
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| Lyla Liu Taiwan News, Staff Reporter | |
| 2025-08-07 |
