Hong Tong's Former Residence Introduction
The Xincuozi located in Kunjianli, Beimen District, is the residence of the self-taught painter Hong Tong, known as the "Eastern Picasso." He started painting passionately at the age of fifty despite being illiterate. His artistic style is famous for its mysterious script and vibrant colors, infused with a touch of mysticism. His early experiences as a spirit medium, along with folk beliefs and life experiences, profoundly influenced his artistic spirit, leading to a religious-like trance while painting, filled with lively, fantastical, and religious imagery. Thus, his works contain not only pictographic-like images but also a sense of familiarity with folk talismans. His abstract and playful style, with bold and vivid colors, attracted attention from both domestic and international audiences, including a personal visit from then-President Chiang Ching-kuo. After gaining fame, Hong Tong remained adamant about not selling his paintings, adhering to his "three no's": first, "not selling paintings," as he believed selling them would mean he could no longer create the same works; second, "not painting ears," since hearing the noise of the world could be distracting, he depicted many characters in his paintings without ears; and third, "not living in houses designed by others," as he preferred to create his own artistic space by painting a "Golden Luan Palace" in hopes of building his own studio. Due to his unique personality and reluctance to engage 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 has combined local characteristics and community imagery by painting Hong Tong's works on community walls, allowing visiting tourists to learn about Hong Tong's life and experience his fantastical world. In addition to his studio in the village, visitors can also see glimpses of past life and enjoy his paintings displayed on the walls of various residences. Furthermore, there is a permanent exhibition of Hong Tong's works at the New An Palace in Kunjianli Xincuo. The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan National Scenic Area Administration points out that Hong Tong's achievements have gradually faded from public memory; however, he remains an indelible legend in Beimen and one of the representative figures of artistic literature in the salt-producing area. It is regrettable to see him forgotten. They hope to create a cultural attraction at Hong Tong's former residence to lead tourists to explore every corner of Beimen. Besides being a beautiful location for weddings, Beimen is also a wonderful place filled with the artistic atmosphere of the salt-producing area. Everyone is sincerely welcomed to explore Hong Tong's mystical and imaginative world.
