“Unobstructed Love” Taiwan-US Art Exchange Exhibition held at Fremont Library on April 18th (last Saturday) attracted the Mayor of Fremont, council members, and dozens of residents to witness the warm power of art transcending barriers and uniting hearts.
The exhibition, organized by the Timely Rain Foundation, Flying Cow Foundation, and the Taiwan Art Association, showcased 54 pieces of art by multiple artists from the Taiwan Art Association at the Fremont Library from April 1st to 30th. Seven artists, accompanied by parents and teachers, overcame challenges such as brain injuries, physical disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome to express their resilience and touching stories through colorful brushstrokes.
Executive Director Luo Qianru of the Timely Rain Foundation expressed gratitude for the support and welcomed guests and artists to the event. She mentioned that the initiative was proposed by teacher Luo Jialing and after years of discussions and preparations, it was finally realized this year.
Luo Jialing shared her thoughts on organizing the event, emphasizing the years of challenges from conception to execution. The visiting group had to travel to the U.S. in separate batches due to last-minute flight cancellations. She highlighted that most of these artworks were previously only seen in Taiwan, and the Art Association has always hoped to take the artists and their works overseas to allow more people to see their emotions and vitality through art.
Mayor Raj Salwan of Fremont mentioned his background as a veterinarian and how he felt a connection to the many small animals depicted in the artworks. He stated that art is a universal language that transcends barriers and conveys passion and strength. As April is both “Art Appreciation Month” and “Autism Awareness Month,” this art exhibition combining art performance and concern for people with disabilities holds significant meaning.
Councilor Teresa Keng, who has two autistic children, expressed her profound understanding of the challenges faced by families with disabilities. The emotional impact of the “Art Angels” visiting the U.S. for exchange resonated with her, providing an opportunity for the community to connect and interact. Councilor Ray Leong applauded the exhibited works for showcasing the extraordinary talent and creative energy of the artists, leaving a lasting impression.
Chairman Lin Guoxun of the Taiwan Art Association expressed gratitude for the assistance in successfully hosting the exhibition. He mentioned that the seven artists were very happy during their time in the U.S., and currently, the association in Taiwan has over forty students and more than ten volunteers who are dedicated to the association’s development, looking forward to doing even better in the future.
During an interview, artist Zhuo Zhonglong shared that some oil paintings take over three years from conception to completion. He illustrated the meticulous process required to depict the fine hairs, layers, and textures on the surface of a kiwi fruit, involving painstakingly detailed brushstrokes for hours to bring vibrancy and delicacy to the artwork.
Chen Hongyin, the mother of artist Lin Yanhao, revealed that her son was born prematurely weighing only 600 grams and dropping to as low as 470 grams, facing risks such as cerebral hemorrhage during his growth. She admitted to never truly giving up because her child’s sole reliance was on her as a mother. Throughout the journey of raising her child, he became a source of strength for her in return. She shared how her son’s needs taught her to slow down, readjust, and develop greater resilience and stamina. Touched, she expressed how her son not only enriched her life but also inspired many others with his story.