2026-04-26

Three faculty members from the Department of Crafts and Creative Design at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK)—Lai Ting-Hung, Shen Ming-Wang, and Chen Guan-Hsun—have launched a joint exhibition titled “Material • Technique • Meaning,” now on display at the university’s Art Hall in the Student Activity Center through May 15.

Through metalworking, wood carving, and ceramics, the exhibition explores the transformative relationship between materials, craftsmanship, and artistic meaning, while highlighting NUK’s continued investment in arts and humanities alongside technological development.

The exhibition is jointly organized by NUK’s Department of Crafts and Creative Design and the Office of Student Affairs. The opening ceremony was held on April 25, with NUK President Chen Chi-Jen attending to show support.

President Chen noted that as a comprehensive university, NUK continues to promote advanced fields such as semiconductors and emerging technologies while also steadily cultivating artistic and cultural development. He emphasized the university’s commitment to balancing technological advancement with humanistic education.

He described the exhibition as a reflection of each faculty member’s expertise—from the precision of metal forging, to the organic vitality of wood carving, to the everyday aesthetics embedded in ceramic art. Together, the works demonstrate how raw materials can be transformed into expressions of emotion and thought.

Chen also praised the three faculty members for continuing their personal artistic practices while balancing teaching and administrative responsibilities, describing their commitment as a meaningful example for students.

Dean of Student Affairs Wang Ming-Yueh stated that the exhibition not only showcases faculty artistic achievements but also creates opportunities for students and faculty across campus to engage with art more closely and experience the stories and emotions embedded in each work.

Department Chair Weng Chun-Yi explained that the three participating faculty members represent the department’s core material disciplines: metalwork, wood-based creation, and ceramics. Their long-term dedication to both teaching and artistic practice has also contributed significantly to student development.

She noted that student projects from the department have frequently been shortlisted in recent years at Taiwan’s Young Designers' Exhibition, many of which were mentored by the three faculty members—demonstrating a sustainable cycle between teaching and creative practice.

Assistant Professor Lai Ting-Hung explained that the exhibition title reflects the relationship between creation and teaching.

“Works are not simply made—they gradually grow over time.”

He emphasized the accumulation of tactile experience and the evolving dialogue between creators and their materials throughout the artistic process.

Instructor Shen Ming-Wang described wood as more than a material:

“Wood can be given a second life.”

He explained that craftsmanship requires patience and time, and that the philosophy of “slow work produces fine craftsmanship” reflects both technical discipline and respect for materials. He integrates these values into his teaching by helping students better understand material properties and cultivate refined artistic perspectives.

Associate Professor Chen Guan-Hsun shared that the three faculty members have maintained close artistic relationships since their student years. Over the years, they have continuously supported one another through collaborative exhibitions that reflect different stages of their creative journeys.

This marks their fourth joint exhibition, following earlier collaborations in 2008, 2018, and 2020. Chen described the exhibition not only as a presentation of artwork but also as a continuation of long-term artistic dialogue and friendship.

He also noted that three-dimensional artistic practice evolves alongside life experiences and physical changes, influencing shifts in scale, form, and creative perspectives over time.

Through “Material • Technique • Meaning,” NUK continues to foster an educational environment where creativity, craftsmanship, and humanistic values remain central to university life.

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