Sandimen Art Village Introduction
Sandimen Village is the political and economic center of Sandimen Township in Pingtung County. The streets are laid out in a neat grid pattern, with buildings constructed on the slopes forming a staggered arrangement that resembles a gentle staircase when viewed from afar, creating a unique tribal landscape. Sandimen Village is renowned for its craftsmanship, with a high artistic standard in various craftworks that not only promote local tourism but also shoulder the mission of cultural heritage preservation. Visiting Sandimen Art Village, one can easily find numerous craft galleries and museums showcasing ceramics, stone carvings, wood carvings, glass beads, and indigenous clothing. Each craft gallery presents a different artistic flavor but collectively exhibits the creative energy of the Paiwan and Rukai tribes, endowing each craft with a distinctive artistic life. Walking through the richly artistic Sandimen feels like being in a treasure trove filled with the vibrant essence of indigenous culture. In earlier times, glass beads were treasured by the Paiwan and Rukai people as family heirlooms or marriage gifts, symbolizing power and noble status. Different glass beads also carry meanings of nobility, protection, courage, love, harvest, and longing, making brightly colored and charming glass beads highly popular craft items, often designed as bracelets, necklaces, or phone charms. Simple yet beautiful in design, there are also DIY courses for glass beads where visitors can experience the joy of making their own glass beads. Many artists from the Paiwan and Rukai tribes engage in artistic creation through personal studios, such as the renowned sculptor Sakyu, who excels in sculpture, painting, and ceramics. His themes often arise from daily life or mythological stories, with meticulous craftsmanship as his hallmark. Similarly, Master Ege, known for his ceramic art, adeptly incorporates indigenous totems into his ceramic works. Perhaps in an unconstrained environment, these artists can express their unique artistic creations, and visiting their studios is sure to leave one moved by their dedicated creative spirit. In addition to touring the art village, visitors can also stop by Koushe Village, which boasts a pristine and tranquil environment, especially with its breathtaking stream valley scenery highlighted by cliffs, giant rocks, and flowing streams that entice one to linger. Walking along the old mountain road, one can catch sight of a beautifully shaped suspension bridge in the distance, and not far from the road is a water intake corridor built during the Japanese colonial period, which is a very precious historical relic.
