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Artist:Yang Yen-Nang
Date:8th December, 2023 ~ 7th January, 2024
Venue:Art Center, NCHU (The 7th floor in Library building)
Opening Hours:9:00-17:00 from Mon. to Fri., 10:00-16:00 from Sat. to Sun. (closed on public holidays)

Half-Century of Artistic Path: Yang Yen-Nang′s Painting Exhibition

The Art Center of National Chung Hsing University is hosting the " Half-Century of Artistic Path – Yang Yen-Nang's Painting Exhibition" from 8th December 2023 to 7th January 2024. In this exhibition, Mr. Yang Yen-Nang utilizes the auspicious and joyful colors in Taiwanese folk customs, such as gold, indigo, red and black into fragmented structure, block layering and flowing lines, showcasing the charm of Eastern visual aesthetics. The composition of the paintings emphasizes simple form and clear themes . The textures of trees and mountain walls are delicately depicted. With variations in the height of the mountains, natural symbols like moss and mottled tree bark are added. The overall artwork displays beautiful layers and textures, expressing his unique artistic language.

Yang Yen-Nang was born at Yunlin County of Taiwan in 1950. Mr. Yang studied under Professors Liu Wen-Wei and Chen Yin-Hui. After graduating from the Department of Fine Arts at the Provincial Pingtung Normal School in 1972, he worked as an art teacher in elementary school for 28 years before retiring, during which time he never ceased creating. Balancing theory and technique, added with observations of nature, his works are always filled with fresh ideas and dynamic energy. Since his first exhibition at the Taichung Cultural Center in 1989 , Yang Yen-Nang has held numerous solo and group exhibitions domestically and internationally. He has published 18 albums of painting creations, received awards such as first place in the National Oil Painting Exhibition, two-time first place in the Tai-Yan Art Society, second place in the National Fine Arts Exhibition, recognized as a permanent exempt artist in the Taiwan Provincial Fine Arts Exhibition, and outstanding alumnus of National Pingtung University of Education.

Over the fifty years of artistic journey, Yang Yen-Nang's works can be categorized into three stages: the "Quasi-Impressionist Period," the "Semi-Abstract Period," and the "Abstract Period." In the first period, the main theme was local landscapes, emphasizing a realistic style. The second period delved into European elements, blending rationality with sensibility in interweaving lines and surfaces in the paintings. In the third period, Yang Yen-Nang selected and transformed the original form from intuitive impressions, evolving it into abstraction, expressing profound thoughts, and extending life experiences into his painting. The stylistic in different stages reflect his inner landscapes. Despite the seemingly Western abstract painting style, his works contain a deep local sentiment, radiating vitality and joy.

Creation is a spiritual activity that must start from the "foundation," and "life" is Yang Yen-Nang's foundation. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, he cherishes the serene and vibrant beauty of nature, finding inspiration from within. His works mirror his daily life—disciplined, minimalistic, yet rich in joy. This genuine and beautiful essence not only provides viewers with visual aesthetic experiences but also conveys his philosophy and wisdom of life.