The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is currently showcasing two large “text art” pieces created by Taiwanese artist Dong Yangzi, titled “Dialogue,” which are displayed on the walls on either side of the main entrance hall as part of the latest installment of the “Main Hall Commission New Works” series.
The opening of the exhibition was accompanied by a dialogue session between Dong Yangzi and curator Ma Weizhong in the museum’s lecture hall. Representatives from the Republic of China in the United States, Yu Da’an, Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York Lee Chichiang, and Director of the Taipei Cultural Center in New York, Zhang Huijun, were all present to show their support.
Discussing the inspiration behind her work, Dong Yangzi expressed that “Dialogue” is not just about communicating with words but also a conversation with her own inner self. When asked if she was satisfied with the exhibited works, Dong Yangzi happily replied, “It’s not bad, but I still feel a bit unsatisfied. But as long as you are satisfied, I am happy.”
The two large pieces on display are respectively titled “A stone from another mountain may be used to polish a jade,” taken from the Book of Songs, which metaphorically means accepting others’ opinions can help oneself improve. The other quote is “Do what you must do, stop when you must stop,” from the words of the Song Dynasty literary giant Su Shi, emphasizing the importance of acting appropriately and knowing when to stop.
Ma Weizhong noted that the selected quotes by Dong Yangzi emphasize inclusivity, engaging in dialogue with the audience, and exploring the attitudes required for the pursuit, creation, and dissemination of knowledge within the museum and its surrounding texts.
Following the event, Republic of China Representative Yu Da’an expressed in a media interview that Dong Yangzi’s calligraphy works being exhibited in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s lobby is a source of pride for the Chinese and Taiwanese people. Traditional Chinese calligraphy often features wise and inspirational words from ancient texts, serving as life mottos hung on walls. Dong Yangzi has transformed calligraphy into an art form, showcasing a bold and grandiose style of calligraphy that leaves foreigners in awe, which is no easy feat.
The exhibition is the third installment of the “Main Hall Commission New Works” series, and Dong Yangzi is the first Taiwanese artist to be invited to participate. This exhibition also marks Dong Yangzi’s first major exhibition in the United States, on display in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s lobby until April 8, 2025.
New York City residents can enjoy free admission to the exhibition by presenting their identification. For more information on the exhibition, visit the official website of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.