Lai Gao Mountain Art Memorial Hall Introduction
Founder Mr. Lai Kaoshan has studied lacquer art since childhood and has dedicated his life to the creation, research, and development of Taiwanese lacquer culture. Recognizing the importance of inheriting and promoting traditional ethnic crafts, he offers his collection of lacquer artifacts accumulated over a lifetime for public viewing. The works on display are all creations of the Lai father and son since the 1940s. With continuous research into lacquer techniques and materials, the collection is extremely rich. It can be roughly divided into areas including lacquer painting, masks, lacquer pottery, various techniques, daily necessities, and material tools. Visitors will be deeply impressed by the 36 steps of lacquer art and the invaluable stacking lacquer vases, as well as the Lai family's unique skill known as "carved lacquer." The museum also showcases the latest creations in lacquer research such as lacquer instruments, lacquer tables, and the recently developed "Dadu lacquer pottery" tableware in collaboration with the Council for Cultural Affairs. Notably, the tableware features a unique technique of attaching leaves, using the special Matsu leaf found in the Nantun Liutoudian area imprinted on the lacquer surface. In the future, the museum will continue to dedicate itself to researching and promoting lacquer culture while also offering DIY experiences for visitors and developing practical works to bring lacquer art closer to the general public. Mr. Lai Kaoshan studied under the Japanese craftsman Yamano Ko and learned the carving techniques that integrate Taiwanese imagery along with the lacquer technique known as "Penglai Tsu" at the Taichung Industrial Vocational High School. In 2000, Mr. Lai Kaoshan and his son Lai Zuoming transformed their former lacquer factory and home into the Taiwan Lacquer Culture Museum. Currently, the museum focuses on the life of Mr. Lai Kaoshan, his creations, and the development of Taiwanese tree lacquer culture, showcasing Taichung's unique lacquer culture as a distinctive feature of Taiwan. Guided tours: ■ Yes □ No ■ By appointment. Text and images provided by the Taichung City Government Cultural Affairs Bureau.
