How a Former Military Settlement in Taipei Became an Artist Residency
Treasure Hill served as a Japanese ammunition depot and Kuomintang squatter settlement prior to its reopening as an artist village in 2010.
In the tranquil forested area of Taipei City, a unique transformation has taken place in the form of an artist residency nestled in a former military settlement called Treasure Hill. Originally established as an anti-aircraft base in the 1940s by retreating soldiers following the Chinese Civil War, the site has undergone multiple transformations over the years. The latest incarnation, launched in 2010, offers a living history experience where descendants of the original inhabitants coexist with artists in residence.
The artist residency, inaugurated in April and May, showcased Taiwanese artist Jia-Jhen Syu's installation, "The Third Memorial." This piece consisted of five-foot lightbulbs hung by five feet of wire, which blinked on and off rhythmically, symbolizing the dynamics of human relationships. Syu's inspiration stemmed from driving past the bridge outside and witnessing the majestic Treasure Hill.
The settlement's current incarnation owes much to its diverse inhabitants, each with their own compelling story. Yi-Chen Bai, an artist born in Treasure Hill, shared her family's history during an interview with Hyperallergic. Her father hailed from Hubei province in China, and having fought for the losing side in the Chinese Civil War, he found himself among the defeated soldiers who were resettled in the area.
Initially viewed as a temporary military camp, the government's attempts to dissuade families from settling in Treasure Hill were futile, leading to a unique blend of military history and artistic innovation.
Written by urgent.news from Hyperallergic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
