Inspirational Taiwan artist stages 1st exhibition

2014-11-13

A disabled Taiwan mouth painting artist recently launched her first watercolor exhibition and related book in Chiayi City, southern Taiwan.

Cheng Hui-lien, a 2014 graduate of National Chiayi Special School, said her 32 works are based on the 45-degree view of the world she experiences from her wheelchair.

“Even though I do not have full range of movement in my neck, the sky is still beautiful in my eyes,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for everyone who has helped me along the way and will carry on.”

Cheng, 18, was partially paralyzed a decade ago after contracting influenza. She refused to let the condition narrow her horizons, redoubling efforts to lead a rich and fulfilling life. This approach saw her win numerous honors such as Dedication to Education Award presented by President Ma Ying-jeou in June and Fervent Global Love of Lives Medal by New Taipei City-based Chou Ta-kuan Cultural and Educational Foundation in 2007.

Chiayi City Mayor Huang Min-huei praised Cheng at the launch for her never-say-die spirit. “What we can learn from her is that as long as you do not give up, life is full of endless possibilities.”

Echoing Huang’s remarks, NCSS Principal Hsu Pi-yun said Cheng is a genuine source of inspiration. “Her passion for life and many accomplishments touch the hearts of us all.”

Not prone to basking in her success, Cheng said she wants to inspire more young people to greater heights and donated just over a thousand copies of her new book to all elementary and junior middle schools in Chiayi City. She also announced plans to hold her first overseas exhibition next month in Hong Kong.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=223909&CtNode=413)