NTM stages exhibition on plains aborigines

2015-04-02

An exhibition on the life of Taiwan’s plains aborigines during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911) is underway at National Taiwan Museum in Taipei City, further bolstering public understanding of the rich history of the indigenous peoples.

“Vivid Ancestor Paintings—A Plains Aborigines Exhibition” features four historic maps produced under Qing emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng and Qianlong, as well as artifacts like eating utensils and fishing gear, historic documents and multimedia demonstrations on tribal practices such as courtship and harvesting.

“The lives of these groups remain largely unknown to the public and warrant greater promotion,” NTM Director Chen Chi-ming said. “We seek to shed light on this important historical chapter by offering static displays and innovative exhibits stimulating the senses of visitors.”

Jointly staged with Academia Sinica’s Institute of History and Philology and National Palace Museum, the exhibition runs until Aug. 30. One highlight is a 17-meter animated version of the Kangxi Taiwan Map, the earliest known color-painted scroll map of the country in existence.

“Spotlighting elements including cultural and geographical developments of nearly 120 tribal settlements across Taiwan, the map is a faithful record of local society in a world long since vanished from these shores.”

Another highlight is an interactive game installation simulating deer hunting activities of the indigenous groups. “Exhibition-goers can draw back a bowstring and take aim at a target on a video screen,” Chen said, adding that exciting hunting experience is certain to prove popular with young and old alike.

“We expect this innovative event to help foster appreciation for all cultures of Taiwan,” Chen said. “It is just one of many cultural initiatives the NTM has in the pipeline over the next 12 months.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=228934&CtNode=413)