Hong Tong's Former Residence Introduction
Located in the Kunjiangli of Beimen District, the Xinzuozi is the residence of "the Eastern Picasso," the self-taught artist Hong Tong. Illiterate and without formal training, he plunged into painting at the age of fifty, becoming known for his mysterious script-style artworks, rich colors, and slightly mystical style. His early experiences with divination, folkloric beliefs, and life experiences deeply influenced his artistic spirit, leading to a religious-like trance while painting. His works are filled with lively, magical, and religious imagery. Consequently, his paintings feature not only pictorial symbols but also a familiarity with folk talismans. His abstract and childlike style, along with bold and vibrant colors, attracted attention both domestically and internationally; even President Chiang Ching-kuo visited him. After rising to fame, Hong Tong, regardless of his financial struggles, refused to sell his paintings due to his stubborn nature characterized by "three nos": first, "not selling paintings," as he believed that selling them would mean he could never create the same work again; second, "not painting ears," since having ears would expose him to worldly criticism, so he avoided painting ears unless adorned with beautiful earrings, leading to many figures in his artworks lacking ears; third, "not living in others' designs," refusing to occupy government-provided housing and instead painting "Golden Lotus Palace," hoping to build his own studio. Due to his unique personality and aversion to engaging with the outside world, he passed away in 1978, leaving behind astonishing works and a mysterious life. The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan National Scenic Area Administration combines local characteristics with community imagery, painting Hong Tong's artworks on community walls, allowing visiting tourists to learn about his life and experience his imaginative world. Within the village, along with Hong Tong's studio, visitors can also see remnants of daily life from the past, and enjoy his artwork displayed on the walls of various residences. Furthermore, there is a permanent exhibition of Hong Tong's paintings at the Xin'an Temple in the Kunjiangli Xinzuozi, welcoming interested individuals to come and appreciate them! The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan National Scenic Area Administration notes that Hong Tong's legacy has gradually been forgotten, yet he remains an unerasable legend of Beimen and one of the representatives of artistic literature from the saline area. It is regrettable that he has been overlooked. Through the establishment of cultural attractions at Hong Tong's former residence, they aim to guide tourists to explore every corner of Beimen. The Beimen area is not only a beautiful location for wedding photography but also a place rich in the artistic atmosphere of the saline region. Everyone is sincerely invited to explore Hong Tong's mystical and fantastical world together.
