Hong Tong Former Residence Introduction
Located in the Kuanjiang Village of Beimen District, the Xincuozai is the residence of the "Eastern Picasso," the folk artist Hong Tong. Self-taught and illiterate, he plunged into painting at the age of fifty, becoming known for his unique style characterized by mysterious characters and vibrant colors, infused with a touch of spirituality. His early experiences as a medium, folk beliefs, and life experiences deeply influenced his artistic spirit, giving his paintings a religious-like hypnotic quality, and the expression in his works is filled with lively, surreal, and deeply religious imagery. Thus, his paintings not only feature pictographic images but also evoke a sense of folk talismans. His abstract and playful style, along with bold and bright colors, attracted attention both domestically and internationally, even leading to a personal visit from then-President Chiang Ching-kuo. After gaining fame, Hong Tong was stubborn and refused to sell his paintings, stating three "no's": first, "no selling paintings," because he believed selling would mean he could never recreate the same work; second, "no painting ears," as he thought ears would allow him to hear worldly gossip and criticism, so characters in his paintings often lack ears, unless adorned with beautiful earrings; third, "no living in houses designed by others," rejecting government housing and instead painting a "Golden Splendor Palace" in hopes of building his own studio. Due to his unique personality and reluctance to engage with the outside world, he left behind a remarkable body of work and a mysterious life when he passed away in 1978. The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan District Office combines local characteristics and community imagery by painting Hong Tong's works on community walls, allowing visitors to learn about his life and experience his imaginative world. In the village, visitors can view scenes of his past life in addition to his studio, and many residential walls also display his paintings. Furthermore, there is a regular exhibition of Hong Tong's works at the Xinan Temple in Kuanjiang Village, welcoming interested individuals to visit and appreciate. The Yunlin-Chiayi-Tainan District Office highlights that Hong Tong's legacy has gradually faded from public memory, yet he remains an indelible legend of Beimen and one of the representative figures of the artistic literature of the saline area, making this neglect rather regrettable. They hope to create a cultural attraction at Hong Tong's former residence in Beimen to lead visitors through various corners of the area. Besides being a stunning wedding photo destination, Beimen is also a wonderful place rich in the artistic ambiance of the saline region. Everyone is sincerely welcomed to explore the enchanting and fantastical world of Hong Tong together.
